Rowers synchronize efforts to navigate life

Rowers synchronize efforts to navigate life

Learning the “Catch”

For rowers, the “catch” is when paddle blades hit the water at the same exact moment. This feat of communication and coordination requires tremendous teamwork.

“We all have to be together,” said Deb Wyer, who has been learning to row for a year. She watched her sons compete in middle school and said she is delighted to get a turn. She is part of the Lake County Rowing Association in Central Florida. Founded in 2011, the nonprofit promotes touring the pristine chain of lakes in Clermont where international Olympic rowers train in winter.

“This is very synchronized work,” said Cheryl Cardinal, the trailer “boss” who’s been rowing 18 years. “This is not a sport you ever perfect. I still am working on skills.”

What draws participants is the love of water and working together. “Rowers of all abilities can be in the same boat,” Keri Caridi said.

“Our rowers range in age from 13 to 71, and no experience is required,” Caridi added. “You’ll see every body shape and size from muscular to not.”

What the group values most is unity. Teens participating observe what makes the training special. “Everything goes better when you work as a team,” said Kayla Young.

Today’s Bible verse:

“Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up” Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 NIV.

Resources:

Lake County Rowing Association https://www.rowlcra.org/

YouTube playlist for nature photography with music and devotions: Living Water to Refresh Your Soul

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLf6ZzeQjavMekJX7_uIXu4VxYUo9HtpVd