We bought a boat!

As we wrap up a year that was unlike any other for DC Strokes and begin planning for an incredible 2022 season, we are grateful for the members, coaches, volunteers and supporters who remain dedicated to the club.

As a non-profit organization, DC Strokes Rowing Club relies entirely on volunteers to make things happen. We also rely on the generosity of our members and friends to keep our programs strong. Membership and program fees simply do not cover all of our expenses, so we have a special request of you today, Giving Tuesday.

In 2020 it became apparent that rowing in small boats was going to be the only way DC Strokes would have any programming during the worst of the pandemic. While a DC Strokes Small Boats program had been discussed in the past, Coach Chantel Sheaks took the lead in 2020 and 2021 in developing, coordinating, and executing our Learn-to-Scull, Intermediate Sculling, and Independent Sculling programs.

With the success of the DC Strokes masters small boats programs, the 2021 Board of Directors approved a plan to expand our fleet to include a small number of singles. At the September Board meeting, the Board approved purchase of a (barely) used 2020 Peinert 26 for general use.

Today, on Giving Tuesday, we’re asking you to help us name the new boat, and to help offset the expense. While all DC Strokes members will be offered a chance to vote on a slate of names, those who contribute to our Giving Tuesday fundraiser will receive additional opportunities to vote as well as a brand new piece of DC Strokes merchandise: a rainbow logo sticker And...if you contribute at least $500, you also can offer a name for the new boat (subject to Board approval).