The Barrie Rowing Club Programs
We offer a wide range and variety of programs for different skill levels.
Whether you’re looking to get into rowing or refine your established techniques… We’ll have a program for you!
BRC offers indoor rowing and fitness sessions from September-May for community members (youth – adult) to keep and improve overall fitness off the water. Participants are guided in the use of Concept 2 indoor rowing machines with additional warm ups and cool downs by trained rowing coaches. The sessions are offered at varying intensities and at different times during the week and sometimes on weekends.
All community members and Barrie Rowing Club members are invited to register and participate. No experience rowing on the water or erging is necessary. Bring a friend and row on land within view of Kempenfelt Bay!
| On Land | |
|---|---|
| Program Name | Dry Land Rowing/Erging |
| Season | September-May |
| Fees – 6 Week Session | |
| Age | Minimum 16+ yrs, (12+ if accompanied by an adult) |
| Class Size | Minimum of 5 to maximum of 14 participants |
| Days/Times | Monday (Youth 12-17 yrs old) 5:15 -6:00pm ,Tuesday 8:30am-9:30 am, Tuesday 6:30pm-7:30pm, Wednesday 5:00pm-6:00pm, Thursday 8:30am-9:30 am, Thursday 5:00pm-6:00pm For details about each class click on the link |
| How to Register | BRC Registration Form |
Intro To Row 1
Intro To Row 1 is for participants with little or no experience rowing on the water. Join us for 2 hours as you are introduced to rowing fundamentals.
| INTRO TO ROW 1 | |
|---|---|
| Season | May-June-July-August |
| Cost | $75 ($60 non-refundable fee applies as we have a limited number of spaces for each session) |
| Age | 16+ |
| Maximum Participants/Session | 4 |
2025 Season Days/Times | One 2hr lesson – Saturday or Sunday morning 8:30am-10:30am, Tuesday or Thursday evening 6:30-8:30pm May 3rd, 11th, 17th, 25th, 31st June 8th, 14th, 22nd July 5th, 8th, 20th, 26th Aug 3rd |
| Boat Handling Skills on the Water: | -Turning: wide turns, sharp turns, spin turns, turning to port and starboard -Backing: in a straight line, steering while backing -Steering: aligning, steering a straight course, course correction to port and starboard -Stopping: emergency stop, stop from rowing, stop from backing, glide stop -Balance: involved in all skills |
| Equipment provided: | single stable rowing shell, oars, rowing erg/machine, life jacket, safety equipment |
| How to Register | BRC Registration Form |
Intro To Row 2
Participants will choose between rowing in a single or in double with someone of similar rowing experience. This program will offer more time on the water to continue to build on the following rowing fundamentals:
| INTRO TO ROW 2 | |
|---|---|
| Season | May-June-July-August |
| Fees – Short Term Program Fees | $80 ($60 non-refundable fee applies as we have a limited number of spaces for each session) |
| Age | Age: 16 years+ |
| Maximum Participants/Session: | 4 |
2025 Season Days/Times | Tuesday and Thursday Evenings from 6:30pm – 8pm or Saturday and Sunday Morning from 7:30am – 9:00am (3 hrs – two 1.5 hour sessions) May 27th & 29th June 3rd & 5th, 10th & 12th, 24th & 26th July 12th & 13th, 29th & 31st Aug 5th & 7th |
| Boat Handling Skills on the Water: | -Turning: wide turns, sharp turns, spin turns, turning to port and starboard -Backing: in a straight line, steering while backing -Steering: aligning, steering a straight course, course correction to port and starboard -Stopping: emergency stop, stop from rowing, stop from backing, glide stop -Balance: involved in all skills |
| Rowing Skills: | grip, good posture, blade control, timing, balance, rhythm and efficiency) will help rowers perform the skills with greater competence and confidence, clear and efficient communication with teamwork |
| Equipment provided: | single or double (coastal or recreational) stable rowing shell, oars, rowing erg/machine, life jacket, safety equipment |
| How to Register | BRC Registration Form |
Intro To Row 3
Participants in Intro To Row 3 choose between rowing in a double or in a quad with someone of similar rowing experience. After this course, participants are encouraged to sign up for the Adult League for the remainder of the summer or into general membership depending on your interest and goals. This program will offer time on the water as a team in a crew boat to continue to build on rowing fundamentals.
Upon completion of this program you will have membership in the Ontario Adventure Rowing organization. “Come explore the beautiful waters of Ontario and beyond through challenging lake and river tours, coastal rows and long distance racing” Ontario Adventure Rowing link .
| INTRO TO ROW 3 | |
|---|---|
| Season | May-June-July-August |
| Fees – Short Term Program Fees | $80 ($60 non-refundable fee applies as we have a limited number of spaces for each session) |
| Age | Age: 16 years+ |
| Maximum Participants/Session: | 4 |
2025 Season Days/Times | Tuesday and Thursday Evening from 6:30pm – 8pm, or Saturday and Sunday Morning from 7:30am – 9:00am (3 hrs – two 1.5 hour sessions) May 17th & 18th, 20th & 22nd June 17th & 19th, 28th & 29th July 5th & 6th, 15th & 17th Aug 2nd & 3rd, 9th & 10th |
| Boat Handling Skills on the Water: | -Turning: wide turns, sharp turns, spin turns, turning to port and starboard -Backing: in a straight line, steering while backing -Steering: aligning, steering a straight course, course correction to port and starboard -Stopping: emergency stop, stop from rowing, stop from backing, glide stop -Balance: involved in all skills |
| Rowing Skills: | Grip, good posture, blade control, timing, balance, rhythm and efficiency) will help rowers perform the skills with greater competence and confidence, clear and efficient communication with teamwork |
| Equipment provided: | double or quad (coastal or recreational) stable rowing shell, oars, rowing erg/machine, life jacket, safety equipment |
| How to Register | BRC Registration Form |
Youth Rowing
The Youth Rowing Program teaches rowing basics as well as provide feedback to help further develop their skills and comfort on the water. Participants are provided with a rowing instructor who will guide their skill development through a series of skill levels. Instructors assess each participant using leveled skills check-lists and provide feedback for improvement as participants gain proficiency, confidence and interest in the sport.
There are six levels to the Youth Rowing program that leads participants to work at their own speed from beginner, to proficient, to training for a first race. Participants develop the skills in each level at their own pace and comfort and can register for as many two week sessions as they are interested in each season. There is a focus on safety, fun, comfort, building leadership and communication skills while in the boats as a rower and coxswain. These skills form the building blocks of rowing and transfer to many other sports as well as improving overall fitness levels.
| On Land and Water | |
|---|---|
| Program Name | Youth Rowing – Summer Youth Rowing Camp 2025 |
| Session 1 | June 30 – July 11th |
| Session 2 | July 14th – July 25th |
| Session 3 | July 28th – Aug 8th |
| Session 4 | Aug. 11th – Aug. 22nd |
| Fees | $185 for your 1st session, $175 for subsequent sessions in the same season. |
| Age | 12-16 |
| Class Size | Maximum of 12 participants |
| Regattas | Need to be in skill Level 6. Intraclub events, Hogtown Heats. |
| How to Register | BRC Registration Form |
With a Full Annual Membership you are able to row 7 days a week with a safety boat to guide you. You can row in a single or join other members to form larger crews and use bigger boats. Two rows are scheduled each morning throughout the week, evening rows on Tuesdays and Thursdays and one row each on Saturday and Sunday. You set your own rowing schedule based on fitness goals and availability. Row as often as you want. You also have complete access to indoor rowing sessions in the off season.
Your Full Annual Membership also includes membership in the Ontario Adventure Rowing organization. Come explore the beautiful waters of Ontario and beyond through challenging lake and river tours, coastal rows and long distance racing, Ontario Adventure Rowing link
Participants are required to complete the ‘IntroTo Row‘ program, Youth Rowing Level 6, or have prior on-water rowing experience.
| Annual Full Year Membership | |
|---|---|
| Program Name | Annual Full Year Membership |
| Season | April-October |
| Cost | – See Fees guide for discounts |
| Age | 14 years + |
| Class Size | N/A |
| Volunteer Hours | Yes, see ‘Fee Chart’ |
| Private Boat Storage | Yes – additional $100 and fill out Private Boat Storage Forms |
| Days/Times | May to October Monday to Friday 5:30am and 7:00am Tuesday and Thursday evenings 6:30-8:00pm in July and August Weekend and Holidays 7:00am |
| Regattas | Coordinate with club coaches and masters rowers |
| How to Register | BRC Registration Form |
REFUND POLICY: A $60 non-refundable fee applies to all programs.
A Seasonal – Water Only membership gives the same peak access to boats and times just like a full annual membership but no indoor rowing classes are included in the off season. Row from Canada Day Weekend (July 1st) to Labour Day Weekend (early September) with a safety boat monitoring you. You are able to row 7 days a week. Two on-water rows are scheduled each morning throughout the week, evening rows on Tuesdays and Thursdays and one row each on Saturday and Sunday. You set your own rowing schedule based on fitness goals and availability. Row as often as you want.
Your Seasonal – Water Only membership also includes membership in the Ontario Adventure Rowing organization. Come explore the beautiful waters of Ontario and beyond through challenging lake and river tours, coastal rows and long distance racing, Ontario Adventure Rowing link
Participants are required to complete the ‘IntroTo Row‘ program, Youth Rowing Level 6, or have prior on-water rowing experience.
| Seasonal – On Water Only | |
|---|---|
| Program Name | Seasonal – On Water Only |
| Season | July (Canada Day Weekend) – September (Labour Day Weekend) |
| Fees | $475 adults ($375 for students) |
| Age | 14 years + |
| Class Size | N/A |
| Private Boat Storage | Not Included – must have a Full Annual Membership |
| Days/Times | Canada Day Weekend (July 1st) to Labour Day Weekend (Early September) Monday to Friday 5:30am and 7:00am, 6:30-8:00pm Tuesdays and Thursdays in July and August Weekend and Holidays 7:00am |
| Regattas | Coordinate with club coaches and masters rowers |
| How to Register | BRC Registration Form |
REFUND POLICY: A $60 non-refundable fee applies to all programs.
The Club League program will build on your introduction to rowing and provide you the opportunity to expand and refine your skills to become a more competent rower as part of a crew. This program will operate from May to September with the expectation that members commit to at least 2 rows per week. Participants will be doing the majority of their rowing in a 4 person boat with emphasis on consistently building upon skills and technique.
The Adult League practices are supported by trained staff with weekly support by certified coaches for added instruction. The benefit of being a part of the Club League is the structure provided by the program as well as the additional instruction provided. There will also be a progressive skills plan that staff and coaches will work through over the course of the season.
Your Club League membership also includes membership in the Ontario Adventure Rowing organization. Come explore the beautiful waters of Ontario and beyond through challenging lake and river tours, coastal rows and long distance racing,” Ontario Adventure Rowing link
The season will culminate in optional regattas as part of the Barrie Rowing Club team.
When: Tuesday and Thursday evenings 6:30-8pm, Tuesday mornings 6:30-8:00am and Saturday mornings 7am
Cost: $350
How to Register BRC Registration Form
What We Offer
Equipment is provided. Participants must be competent swimmers, or wear a PFD when on the water.
Prices listed include all taxes and compulsory Row Ontario and Rowing Canada Aviron association fees.
REFUND POLICY: A $60 non-refundable fee applies to all programs.
The Barrie Rowing Club is a non-profit organization whose mission is to stimulate, advocate and develop the sport of rowing in the Barrie area and Simcoe County. To achieve a vibrant, strong and dynamic rowing community, we provide training programs targeted at individuals of all ages and abilities.
Fees
Annual Membership Fees:
| Adult | Student | Volunteer Hours for Support Fee Refund | Support Fee Refund – After Volunteer Hours Completed | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Intro to Row 1,2,3 graduates* | $645 | $430 | ||
| Returning members* | $695 | $480 | Students – 12 Adults – 24 | Students – $80 Adults – $160 |
*includes on-water rowing from dock-in to dock-out as well as all indoor rowing/fitness/yoga programs for the year.
Seasonal Rowing for Recreational/Club Rowing:
| Adult Fees (with no volunteer hours) | Student Fees (with no volunteer hours) | Required Volunteer Hours To be eligible for discount | Volunteer Hour Discount | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Club League (16yrs+) | $375 | $300 | ||
| On Water Only | $470 | $375 |
Access to “on-water” from July 1 (Canada weekend) to Labour Day Weekend (Early September).
Frequently Aasked Questions
A trusty friend in a kayak can act as your photographer, coach and safety boat.
Everyone!
Rowing is a great physical activity, and when done correctly can benefit every part of the body. That being said, rowers should be 12 and over and should have no medical conditions that prevent them from doing physical exercise. If in doubt, please consult your doctor.
You should wear athletic clothing that is relatively close fitting and comfortable. On a windy day a light jacket would help keep you warm. Most rowing shells come with shoes in them, but you should always wear socks in the boat and some footwear you do not mind getting wet while you are on the dock. Do not forget a bottle of water and a hat if it is a sunny day.
Yes, although it is very unlikely that you will end up in the water. We have safety boats out on the water for each session, and life jackets can be taken in the rowing shells. The Learn To Row boats are very stable and are not susceptible to capsize.
All of our rowing shells have sliding seats, with the majority being sculling boats (2 oars/rower) and some being sweep boats (1 oar/rower). The Club has a selection of novice, transitional and racing shells.
When taught and done properly, rowing is a low impact sport on all parts of the body. Our coaches and instructors are trained to teach technique that will minimize strain to any part of the body. Like many new activities, general muscle soreness may occur when learning as this is a new activity for your body.
Option 1 – Check out the Learn To Row II Program.
Option 2 – Check out the Summer Specials.
Option 3 – Check out the Full Membership.
Option 1 – Check out the Summer Specials.
Option 2 – Check out the Full Membership.
Option 1 – Check out the Summer Specials.
Option 2 – Check out the Full Membership.
Yes! We have staff who can help carry your boat, answer questions and help you launch your boat from the dock. Other rowers also help each other to carry equipment and ensure equipment is set up safely prior to leaving the dock. Check out the (July 7, 2020) video below to see an early morning rowing launch.
Forms & Documents
1. BRC Online Registration
2. BRC Safety Program
5. Concussion Resources & Code of Conduct
6. BRC Private Boat Storage
7. BRC Emergency Action Plan
8. BRC Volunteer Hours & Support Fee Refund Request
9. Safe Sport
10. BRC Covid-19
Safety First
MacGyver Tip For Rowers – Pool noodles on the rigors of a racing shell in early May plus your life jacket on board makes for a confident rower that will stay dry. A trusty friend in a kayak can act as your photographer, coach and safety boat.