Just as we have taken steps to provide for and meet our physical exercise needs, we need to mentally take steps towards working out and expand our rowing knowledge base. This can be done through reading. No face mask necessary. Just carve out some time, find a comfy chair, bring your favorite beverage and a blanket.
Here are some selections to further explore compliments of one of our rowers Andrea Mowrer:
1. Rowing the Atlantic, by Roz Savage. Roz Savage was the first solo woman ever to enter the 3,000-mile trial by sea Atlantic Rowing Race. This book is her account of this sometimes harrowing, sometimes joyous journey and her transformation from a corporate businesswoman to a determined rower at one with the sea.
2. A Most Beautiful Thing the True Story of America's First All-Black High School Rowing Team, by Arshay Cooper. The author is part of a group of young men from Chicago's west side who formed the first all black rowing team in the nation. Although they faced racism and gang violence among other adversities, they ultimately went on not only to transform themselves but to transform the sport for the better. There is also now a documentary movie narrated by Common about this team.
3. The Red Rose Crew, by Daniel Boyne. Until 1975, rowing was considered a man's sport, and the 'no women allowed' attitude was pervasive. That all changed when a group of brilliant, fierce, brave and strong women fought for their right to row, and ultimately participated in the 1975 World Championships and the 1976 Olympic Games. This book is an account of what these women had to overcome in breaking through societal barriers as well testing the limits of their own physical limitations as they rowed their way to glory.
