More windy weather this week, but I’m pleased that a large cohort of under-16 JW scullers got out safely yesterday for their first outing since March. We are planning to run basic skills assessments in the next couple of weeks to enable more scullers to safely resume outings, and then to consider how we can support development of others.
We also aim to issue Wave 4 next week although, to manage expectations, the latest BR guidance is not substantively different from the previous release. We are aware that our sweep fraternity, unless in household crews, are still unable to get onto the water yet. BR recognise this is a challenge for all clubs (and the national squads) and have it on their agenda.
I participated in last week’s BR Lockdown webinar (Playing your part: Getting your club back up and running safely) to share our story with the wider rowing community. One of the things that struck me was how varied the approaches are from club to club, dependent upon local contexts. We are extremely fortunate to have such great facilities, and a large boating frontage that enables us to boat many more people, whilst maintaining social distancing, than many clubs who are restricted to 2 boats at a time.
I would like to request that those members who are able to get onto the water respect and follow our protocols that are designed to keep our members safe. In particular: strictly adhere to boating times as per the procedures (to avoid congestion on pontoons and around the boathouse); and if you decide not to row/scull to notify Jim so that he may reassign your slot. Please think of the impact of your actions on others, be considerate, and follow the collaborative spirit of the endeavour.
In the six weeks since our first Safe Return to Rowing session on 16th May we have had over 1,400 individual outings enjoyed by over 136 members (seniors and juniors). The non-rowing activities continue, recognising that not all our members can row/scull yet, and that it is important to continue supporting, engaging and connecting with all members of our community.
All of this is enabled by a network of active and committed volunteers; 73 roles populated by 52 members. I would like to appreciate their efforts, and say a big ‘thank you’ to all volunteers, on behalf of the club.
Since putting these numbers together for Tuesday’s webinar, I’d like to add another two: Laurie and Steve (from the Daytime squad), who filled up all the launch fuel cans during the week, even though neither of them has yet returned to the water. Thank you both.
We are convening a Rowing Committee meeting tomorrow (6th July) evening, so please take the opportunity to share your thoughts with your squad captains/reps. We have started considering options for the 2020/21 Junior season, albeit within the uncertain context, and I’m delighted that Izzy and Ollie will now be members of the RC to be the voices of the Junior members from within the junior community.
This weekend we should have been at HRR, but 4 Junior ‘quads’ represented Maidenhead at the Henley Virtual Championships. No results at the time of writing, so something to look forward to next week.
Our CRSAs Chris and Diane shared some guidance this week regarding sepsis and Weil’s disease. Please read their email carefully, noting preventative measures, potential symptoms and actions.
Finally, I would like to remind all members that as a club, and as a sport, we stand for diversity and inclusion. Please be mindful of what you say, do, and post.
Stay safe and care for your fellow rowers.
Nick