A coach giving instruction to rowers. The rowers are sitting in a boat at the dock. The coach is next to them on the dock.

June 8, 2025 - National Come Try Rowing Day

Updated on
National Come Try Rowing Day 2025 Logo
Experience the fun of rowing at our National Come Try Rowing Day on Sunday, June 8th from 9am to 5pm! This event is open-house style, so arrive anytime (but by 3pm if you want to get on the water). We anticipate most people will spend one to two hours with us. To streamline the process, please sign up for a time slot and pre-fill the Info-Waiver-Form. Walk-ins are still always welcome, and paper waiver forms will be available at the event.

Two children get instruction from a volunteer along with their mom. One child and the mother are on rowing machines.

Who’s invited

All newcomers to rowing, from ages 12 through active 80s. While younger children are permitted, for their safety, they won't be able to use the equipment and must be supervised at all times. Participants under 19 need to be accompanied by an adult who stays onsite. Dogs, other than certified service dogs, are unfortunately not allowed.

A quad on the water. In the foreground are rowing machines, another quad at the dock, and people standing.
What to expect

Discover the wonderful sport of rowing, meet members of the community, and spend some time on the beautiful Gorge Waterway in a safe and welcoming environment. We will introduce you to the rowing technique on a stationary rowing machine, and then venture onto the water with experienced guides. There will be the opportunity to inquire, explore our boathouse, and learn more about our club programs.

Location

You’ll find us at 2940 Jutland Road, Victoria, BC. Look for us down by the water, nestled between Glo Restaurant and the Fairway Gorge Paddling Club. Parking is available on the street and in nearby lots. We are close to the Galloping Goose bike trail, with bike racks conveniently situated for cyclists. Public transit users will find there is a bus stop close by as well.

What to Bring (or not bring)

If you’re eager to row on either the machine or water, please arrive dressed to row:

  • Snug-fitting workout attire (no baggy shorts or skirts because fabric can get caught in the rolling seats)
  • Socks to wear in the boat (your shoes get left on the dock)
  • Optional: Water bottle, hat, and secure sunglasses

Please refrain from bringing valuables such as phones or cameras onto the water, as they may fall in or get wet. We don’t provide secure storage for purses or backpacks.

Previous Events

Here are a few pictures from previous Come-Try-Rowing events!

In the foreground is one of our volunteers, with their baby in a front carrier, laughing. In the background, a quad has just launched and is moving away from the dock.
Boats getting ready to launch at the dock as seen from the Selkirk Trestle. A flowering bush is at the bottom left. On the right, a person riding a bike is just coming into the picture.
New rowers learning on the ERG, being led by a M.A.S.T. team member.
Two quads on the water. A coach boat is visible in the background.
A quad getting ready to push off the dock. Behind is an empty quad and another quad getting ready. A fourth quad is on the water. Several volunteers are on the dock.