The Victoria Lake Rowing Club (VLRC) has been in existence for more than a 100 years, and has been the nursery of a great number of national rowers.
Junior rowing in South Africa is mostly exercised by a limited number of schools, both private and state, nine of which operate out of Victoria (Germiston) Lake.
Children who do not attend “rowing” schools are only able to participate through one of the few junior rowing clubs in South Africa, three of which are located in Gauteng.
Several years ago, the junior section of VLRC was merged with other rowing clubs, which proved to be unsuccessful.
The junior section has now been re-launched, and is open to all children aged between 12 and 18.
Junior members receive both on-water and land-based coaching presented by professional coaching staff.
Junior members also have the opportunity to compete in local, regional and national competitions (regattas).
VLRC is a non-profit sporting club, which in recognition of the importance of transformation in sport, also offers some sponsored memberships to children from previously disadvantaged communities.
Rowing is a full body exercise, which greatly enhances fitness, as well as cardio-vascular capacity.
At the same time, it is a low impact sport, eliminating many of the possible injuries one can expect from contact sports.
It is also a sport which can be enjoyed either on one’s own, or in a “team” or crew.
Like many sports, it both requires and promotes a high level of self-discipline.
The junior section of Victoria Lake Rowing Club is holding an open day at Germiston Lake from 8am on Saturday, October 29.
You will be introduced to this fantastic sport, and can see whether rowing is for you.
The open day is free.
For more information contact Carla Wesley at vlrcjunior@gmail.com or Talbot Pule on 079 050 4760.
The entrance to VLC, which is based at Germiston Lake, is in Refinery Road, Germiston.
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