For more than 25 years, the Rowing Club of The Woodlands has been teaching the art of rowing to area residents.
“If you look up the definition of rowing, it’s propelling a boat across the water or racing boats, but it’s so much more than that,” coach Dee Hotop said. “It’s rhythm and motion and controlling your body and putting it in unison with the equipment and nature around you.”
The Rowing Club of The Woodlands is open to rowers of all ages and offers memberships for individuals, youths, couples, families and collegiate students. There are about 20 to 40 children in the youth program and between 40 and 60 adults and recreational rowers.
“Our club is focused on three major areas: club rowing, youth rowing and masters rowing,” club president Jeff Schrick said. “We cover everything for families and want everyone from one age group to the next.”
Prior experience is not necessary to join the club, which practices on Lake Woodlands. Prospective members who have not rowed before can sign up for “learn to row” classes, which cost $180. After completing the classes, new members receive a $100 credit toward the annual club membership of $300.
“It costs you $380 to learn to row and join the club,” Hotop said. “That gives you access to a number of shells that range in cost from $4,000 up to $40,000, not to mention the oars that cost $500 a pair. You’re getting all that equipment for $300 a year.”
After completing the learn to row classes, club members can ask for more coaching and attend open row sessions held on Saturday morning for the opportunity to practice more. Experienced rowers, who can carry a boat solo, can also come and go at will throughout the week to practice when Northshore Park is open—from dawn until dusk.
Charles Dixon joined The Woodlands Rowing Club more than 10 years ago when his wife heard about it after the couple moved to the area.
“You’re always having to challenge yourself because coming up with the perfect stroke is nearly impossible,” Dixon said. “You have to keep working on it. I feel like it’s a good way to stay active.”
The club’s master rowers also compete in a number of regattas throughout the year across the state and country, giving them a chance to perfect their craft.
“We try to instill in our athletes a healthy respect for each other and a healthy appreciation for each other,” Hotop said. “I think we’ve done a good job of that.”
