STORIES / winter rowing

by Baxter Walsh

Up until the mid-1990s, NHRC members only rowed in warmer weather, usually early spring through late fall. At some point, when balmy days continued into December and even January, after the majority of members had stopped on-water rowing, a small number of rowers continued to row on the Housatonic River. This group became known as Winter Rowers. They rowed whenever there was no ice or the weather too inclement. They reveled at the morning sunrise, enjoyed the brisk temperatures and the quiet, flat waters of the Housatonic. They felt great benefit from the long steady-state workouts, followed, of course, by the collegiality of a hearty oatmeal and coffee breakfasts. Snow fell and temperatures plunged, but winter rowing persisted. The docks might have to be shoveled, scraps of carpet might be needed over the ramp to prevent slipping, extra layers and pogies might be called for, but rowing continued. They loved it!

By 1994 there was a sizable contingent of rowers, from far and near who had heard about and wanted to experience Winter Rowing on the Housatonic. Invitations were sent to all the local rowing clubs to come to a “New Year’s Day Row & Breakfast” hosted by NHRC. About fifty people attended! Everyone agreed that it is a wonderful way to begin the year and it became an annual event. It has been held every year since with only two or three exceptions (caused by thick ice or Covid). Any experienced rower can join in the furious 1500 meter pick-up race by jumping into an eight or a four. Then everyone enjoys a sumptuous breakfast and a few words of delight by those so disposed.

As the Winter Rowing Program grew, and gradually became an official program of NHRC, the Board of Directors had ongoing concerns about rowing in the winter weather. Accidents in cold water can be dangerous. Liability became an issue. Over time, after a great deal of research and debate, it was settled that the program could continue as long as it abided by strict safety guidelines. Oversight of this new program was given to the Safety Committee which, in turn, reports to the Club’s Board of Directors. The Committee established a set of guidelines and rules. Rowers must be experienced and certified by the Safety Committee and they must sign a separate Winter Rowing Waiver. There are restrictions based on visibility and weather. Winter rowers recognize the need for limits to rein in more adventurous behaviors and agree to follow the rules. These rules occasionally provide a forum for heated debate over what is truly too adventurous or, on the other hand, unnecessarily restraining to satisfy the need for caution and limits on cold water rowing. In the long run good judgement has prevailed. Over the past 20+ years the Winter Rowing program has thrived and remains accident free.

Aside from the healthful benefits of rowing, especially in the light of the goals of the typical winter rower, who delights both in the discipline of simple, strenuous exercise and the camaraderie of the group, the program adds an important dimension to the club. Unlike many other rowing clubs in Northern climes, at NHRC rowing is available all year long. You are welcome to participate.