A group of 8 wheelchair bound athletes from Michigan Sports Unlimited, Inc. (MSUI) participated in the Bay City Rowing Club's annual "Learn to Row Day" today. The mission of MSUI is "to educate, instruct, and provide unlimited access to a wide range of recreational activities in order to improve the physical, social, and mental well being of individuals with disabilities and ultimately empower them to achieve success." The group's "learn to row" day outing was just one in a series of outings planned for this year.
The Bay City Rowing Club has long been a leader in "adaptive rowing" in Michigan. Scott McLeod, adaptive rowing coach for the Bay City Club, says that the club has sponsored numerous events. Rowers of all ability levels have participated in this exciting sport.
The Rowing Club has several pieces of equipment specifically designed for individuals with disabilities. On "Learn to Row" day the group used a wide bottomed Alden rowing shell which can be configured in many ways for either one or two rowers. The adaptive equipment used included stationary seats with canvas backs and seat belts. These units also have outriggers to increase the stability of the boat.
Rowing is an exciting sport for anyone. The Bay City Club's "Learn to Row Day" is free clinic held in conjunction with "National Learn to Row Day" sponsored by The US Rowing Association. The Club also offers a comprehensive "Introduction to Rowing" program throughout the summer. The cost is $75 per person and does not require membership in the club.
Steve Kent and his family have lived in Bay City for 40 years. He is VP of Technical Services at MMCC which produces MyBayCity.Com. Kent is active in many Bay City civic organizations.