Rowers are invited to RiverTay session

Tay Rowing Club is hoping to re-ignite the passion of those who previously took to the water.

The club, based on the outskirts of Perth on the southern banks of the River Tay, is holding a session geared towards former rowers on Saturday, August 18.

Current club member Mel Nicoll, who returned to rowing 12 months ago after a near 30-year absence, can vouch for the friendly welcome.

“I thought I had given up on rowing when I left my student days behind and moved up to the area,” Mel explained to the Perthshire Advertiser.

“So I was delighted to discover that a club had recently been formed in Perth and tentatively showed up last summer.

“It didn’t matter that I was only experienced in ‘sweep’ rowing and had never sculled.

“I’m now enjoying the chance to row on this beautiful stretch of water in both disciplines, have taken part in my first race and even plucked up courage to cox an eight.

“It would be great to welcome more people back to the sport and join our growing membership of experienced, development and novice rowers.”

The return-to-row event, which starts at 1pm, will give a chance to row with club members in a range of boats – depending on water conditions and numbers – and will be followed by a BBQ/refreshments and chance to find out more about the club.

The club, which has members from across Tayside, has recently secured planning permission for a purposebuilt boathouse and also runs learn to row courses for beginners several times a year.

Details of the event and how to book can be found on the club’s website www.tayrowingclub.com and Facebook page.