Return to Rowing

The BRC, like so many other businesses and athletic programs, closed its doors three months ago in response to the coronavirus. 

While Province of Ontario continues to be under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, on May 19, the Government of Ontario, the first stage of its framework for reopening the Province, came into effect. During this first phase, the government permitted the reopening of some outdoor recreational amenities, including rowing clubs, but for recreational use only. 

As of June 14, the BRC is back on the water – albeit in a limited fashion. Having met the requirements of Rowing Canada’s Risk Assessment and Risk Mitigation tools, and in consultation with our board of directors, the BRC has in place new guidelines to ensure athlete safety. 

For now, rowing is limited to singles in an effort to maintain the minimum two-meter distance between individuals. Also, each participating athlete or member is required to read and sign the BRC COVID Code of Conduct, review the BRC Return to Rowing protocol, and sign an acknowledgment of risk. 

To further maintain safe distancing, all athletes will be assigned to smaller groups, or “nodes” of four to five. 

While coaches, athletes, and the board are excited to get back out on the river, safety remains our primary focus. For the time being, access to the building and the outside of the boathouse is restricted. The BRC will continue to monitor updates from the Province of Ontario and follow the best practices as outlined by RCA and Row Ontario.