Frequently Asked Questions

How much does the program cost?

RVR is sliding scale, which means that no one will be turned away for a lack of funds. We ask that each participant try to contribute what they can, $10-$120/season (fall and spring). This helps us to cover all necessary costs including coaching, equipment, transportation, uniforms and additional clothing needs, a healthy snack every day, racing entry fees, hotel fees and other travel expenses.

When does the program meet?

RVR meets Monday - Friday from 4-6pm. We meet starting in late August and practice through mid-November (fall season), then again from February-late May (spring season). From mid-November through January we offer winter conditioning classes on land 2 days/week (4:30-6pm) when there isn't enough daylight to row. In spring, we offer optional Saturday practices for those who want a little extra time on the water or with the team.

Does RVR go to competitions?

During the fall, we attend 2-3 local races on weekend days. During the spring, we have multiple races, mostly in April and May, including several opportunities for away-travel including Portland, OR and British Columbia, Canada. Junior Regionals in Vancouver, WA is our culminating event!

Where does the program meet?

RVR mostly meets at the Mt Baker Rowing and Sailing Center, a Seattle Parks and Recreation facility at Stan Sayers Pits (where they have the hydroplane races each August). RVR provides transportation to and from practices with Parks Department vans. We pick participants up at any of the Rainier Valley and surrounding area community centers they choose: Rainier Beach, Van Asselt, Rainier, or Garfield CCs. Pick up times start at 3:15pm and return times end at 6:30pm. Swim training sessions are held at the Rainier Beach Pool, in the Rainier Beach Community Center. Transportation is available.

Is RVR safe for non-swimmers or weak swimmers?

Absolutely! Each RVR participant can receive free swimming lessons with expert swim coaches at Rainier Beach Pool to improve their water skills and comfort and develop necessary swimming abilities. Before we row on the lake, each participant will learn the basics on land. When we begin to go in the boats, weaker swimmers will have access to the best PFDs (personal floatation devices; lifejackets) made.

Where do participants come from?

RVR rowers can come from any school or neighborhood! That said, RVR rowers predominantly live in the Rainier Valley and surrounding communities. However, they attend middle and high schools as far apart as Garfield and Liberty.

What do participants get out of RVR?

Success.

Many studies have shown that participation in sports leads to higher self-esteem, improved focus, and better time-management skills.

Skills for life.

Rowing is an intensive sport that tones the body and challenges the mind. The leadership, teamwork, and time management skills necessary for success will serve participants for the rest of their lives - whether or not their lives include rowing.

Health.

Rowing offers an incredible opportunity to participate in a team sport no matter what a person's athletic ability or experience. RVR also offers a healthy living guest speaker series featuring local professionals who will offer information and skills that will serve participants throughout their lives.

Opportunities.

Rowing can open many doors for a young person's future. Many employers know the sport well, and look favorably on those who have already learned the teamwork and self-discipline the sport demands. And Mt. Baker rowers are regularly recruited by universities, and many have received rowing and/or academic scholarships.

Fun.

Best of all RVRers are part of a team where each individual brings something unique and valuable to the group. Everyone is needed and appreciated, and encouraged to be their best person. The team works hard together and plays hard too: In the van, while we're stretching out, at races, on away-trips, and between activities. We're a small community that participants can't wait to get to each day.