May 22, 2025 by Seward Folly Staff
If you’d like to spend some of your summer out on the water, the Kenai Crewsers want to meet you. Alaska’s oldest rowing club is offering a “Learn to Row” event on May 31, and they’re on the lookout for outdoor types who love being part of a team.
What’s the catch? There isn’t one. All ages and skill levels are welcome — whether you’ve never held an oar or you once rowed in college, you’ll fit right in. The Crewsers are a competitive bunch (they’re regular contenders for Alaska’s top two spots), but they’re also about community, fun, and soaking up every drop of summer at Bear Lake.
And if you like learning from the best, you’re in for a treat. Coach Susan Wood is back this year, bringing with her a résumé that spans everything from local outreach programs to coaching the U.S. National and 2004 Olympic teams.
“It’s pretty special to have someone like her coaching in our community. If you’ve ever thought about rowing, this is a great year to go for it. We’ve already got a fun group signed up, and the more people, the better the adventure.”
– Samantha Allen, three-time Alaska singles champ and the club’s membership chair.
What can you expect at Learn to Row? You’ll get the lowdown on rowing lingo, check out all the gear, and get a feel for different types of rowing shells. You’ll learn the basics on a rowing machine, then — weather permitting — take to the water with experienced rowers right there to help. Afterward, stick around for a team BBQ and some good conversation. Bonus: Your first two weeks of practice are free, and there are five different time slots, so you can row when it works for you.
The Crewsers don’t just train — they race. The club competes in at least two regattas every year, including their big home event, Tail of the Bear, on August 16 at Bear Lake. There’s also the Moose Nugget Regatta in July (date TBA) on Wasilla Lake, where they face off against the Anchorage Rowing Association. And if you’re dreaming of rowing in far-flung places, you’ll be in good company — the Kenai Crewsers have raced everywhere from Australia to Slovenia.
Ready to try something new, make friends, and spend your summer on the water?
Visit kenaicrewsers.org to learn more, or sign up for Learn to Row at tinyurl.com/2uz7f2dh.
See you on the lake!
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