Good rowing LOOKS easy. But don’t be fooled – it is a little more complicated than it looks.

It’s different from kayaking, outrigger paddling, canoeing, sailing… even different from rowing that fixed-seat rowboat at summer camp when you were a kid. So, if you think rowing looks cool and easy, you’re half right. It IS a very cool sport. It most likely will take a bit of time to get the hang of it. But, as experienced rowers will tell you, it is well worth it.

Even if you have rowed before, it’s important to learn about the Monterey Bay in particular. We are one of the few clubs whose members venture out into the open ocean. You can’t over-prepare for ocean rowing.

Luckily, there are several excellent Santa Cruz Rowing Club-approved Instructors available for Check-Out sessions, Beginner, and Intermediate lessons. These instructors have had significant rowing and coaching experience and are familiar with SCRC boat handling procedures and policies. Please email one of the instructors through the links below to set up one-on-one or small group coaching.

Holly Borsodi or phone 831-466-0344 

I started rowing in high school on the Ohio River and then went to Syracuse University on a rowing scholarship.  After graduation I coached Novice Women at the University of Rhode Island and then at UCLA.  I have been coaching with the Santa Cruz Rowing club since 2000.  I enjoy teaching ocean rowing and seeing birds, otters, sea lions, sting rays, jellyfish, dolphins, and whales (on lucky days).  I prefer rowing and teaching during weekdays when there is less boat traffic.

Jodi Boswell or phone 831-421-2646

I have been teaching open water rowing on the Monterrey Bay for 8 years.  I encourage my students to bring lots of laughs and patience for themselves since rowing can be awkward to learn.  Safety and procedures come first, but I make sure that students are also having a good time. I focus on training rowers to get out of their minds and into their bodies. Rowing can be complicated, but feeling it all come together is worth the effort!  I enjoy mentoring my students after lessons and try to connect them with other rowers.  Come give it a try!

Margaret Niven or phone 831-566-6414

I have been rowing on Monterey Bay and in Elkhorn Slough since 2005. Along with the physical strength and flexibility that I have gained through open water sculling, I find the beauty of our local water and marine wildlife inspirational. Come learn how to row on the ocean. It’s fun!  Whether you are a beginner or an experienced sculler, I will teach you the skills you need to row safely on the bay.

Karen Carlson (KC) seawind35knot@gmail.com 831-566-5401

I learned to row in dories and heavy triples here in Santa Cruz back in 1981. By year 3, I knew I wanted to row across Monterey Bay. I’ve navigated 22 crossings in every variety of triple and double boat available, sometimes with mixed crew and most times women crew. In addition, I’ve rowed every Bay area race multiple times and also Tahoe. I’d like to teach you Navigation and Safety (2hr class) and beginning 2013, I will offer Video of your technique. One of the best ways to learn is to SEE Yourself. You will receive a DVD and access to private YouTube of your video.

Tom Dexel or phone 831-818-2271