PORT TOWNSEND — The Rat Island Rowing and Sculling Club plans an open house for all those interested in learning about rowing Saturday, June 11.
The open house will be from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the shell storage area at the Northwest Maritime Center, 431 Water St., Port Townsend.
“Come join us to hear about our learn-to-row classes, the health benefits of rowing and other club activities,” said John Collins, club president.
The open house will provide opportunities to view rowing shells, use the ergometers — or rowing machines — and view and participate in rowing demonstrations, Collins said.
Coaches and experienced rowers will be available to provide information.
Learn-to-Row Day
The open house is in recognition of National Learn-to-Row Day, coordinated nationally by USRowing, a national rowing organization.
National Learn-to-Row Day is actually scheduled for this Saturday, but Port Townsend will have a negative tide that day, Collins said.
Since local rowers launch from the beach, the club decided to wait a week, when there will be higher water at midday.
“You’ve got to be aware of the tides and currents to be a rower here,” Collins said.
Organized in 2005, the Rat Island Rowing Club is composed of 60 local rowing enthusiasts.