Does the Don Rowing Club rent boats?
Typically the DRC does not rent their rowing shells. Only members of the club have access to the boats as part of their membership.

What’s the difference between rowing, canoeing and kayaking?
Rowing is divided into two categories: sculling and sweeping. In sculling, the athlete use two oars each, while in sweeping every rower has just one oar. The oars are locked into place in the oarlock – this is not the case in canoe and kayak racing. Also, in rowing the legs are the main source of power in the stroke – whereas in canoeing and kayaking the legs do not provide any power in the stroke. Canoeing sees athletes kneel inside the boat and use a single-bladed paddle, while in kayaing they sit and use a double-bladed paddle. These paddles are significantly shorter than a rowing oar.
Some of the sweep-oar events also make use of a coxswain to guide the crew, which is never seen in canoe or kayaing. The reason for this is that rowers travel backwards, as in their backs face the direction they are moving. In canoeing and kayaking the athlete travels forwards and they can see what is ahead of them.

I have no rowing experience, what is the right program for me?
Taking a session in the Learn-to-Row program is the correct place to start when you have little to no rowing experience. The LTR program introduces you to the sport of rowing and give instruction on the technical side of of the stroke.

What happens when I have completed a Learn-to-Row session and want to continue rowing?
After adults have completed a Learn-to-Row session, they can continue rowing in Level 1 of the Recreational & Fitness program. After Youth have completed a Learn-to-Row session, they can continue rowing in Level 1 of the Junior Competitive program.

Does training continue during the Winter months?
Yes, training and rowing does continue during the Winter months. Typically at the Don Rowing Club, we are on the water during months of April through to the end of October. During November through to the end of March we train indoors at the boathouse making use of the indoor rowing tank, rowing machines and weight room.

Do I need to know how to swim?
Although the chances of tipping a boat are slim, all Learn-to-Row participants and members of the club must be able to swim.

Am I required to produce a “Swim to Survive” certificate at time of registering?
No, you do not have to produce the certificate. However, when registering with Rowing Canada you will be signing a waiver declaring that you are capable of swimming and treading water. If you are not a strong swimmer and are unsure of your swimming ability, we recommend that you schedule a test at a local Mississauga swimming pool.

I have previous rowing experience do I need to take a Learn-to-Row session?
If you have previously taken a Learn-to-Row session or have rowing experience, please let membership know of your experience and we can schedule an assessment to determine your level and recommend the correct entry way into the club that aligns with your interest.

I currently attend and row competitively at a university, can I join a competitive program for the summer?
Yes, the Summer Competitive program is the correct program to join if you wish to row during your summer break from university.