2021 ARA Erg Championships
On account of the challenges presented by COVID-19, the 2021 ARA Erg Championships took on a different look. This year, 86 athletes across the province invited us into their homes, gyms, clubs, garages and a few other locales so that we could see them compete via Zoom. The event was the first opportunity many of us got to see one another in over a year and the first provincial competition since March of 2020.
We at the ARA know the past 12 months has been difficult on athletes and coaches across the province, but the results from the past weekend show that we are a resilient bunch. On Saturday March 6 there were nearly 20 Novice athletes in attendance many of whom have never attended an on-water regatta. We had a record number of athletes under the age of 18 in attendance. A significant number of athletes pulled personal best times over the weekend and we had representation from clubs all across the province.
The ARA is excited about the status of our sport and look forward to the occasion where all of us can meet together this summer on the water. In the meantime, the ARA thanks the Central Alberta Rowing Club for their efforts in making this year’s Erg Championships a success and getting each of us excited about racing once again.
2022 Canada Summer Games Camp
The ARA remains hopeful that it will be able to host an an-water camp for qualified CSG Athletes in Invermere, British-Columbia from April 16-18, 2021. However, It is acknowledged that this event cannot proceed unless the Government of Alberta deems it safe to do so. The ARA will listen to government updates as they progress and will make a final decision on this camp by April 1, 2021.
With an optimistic look to the future and a hope that health measures are relaxed over the coming month, the ARA will send out invites to any U21 athlete who hits an erg standard of 7:00/men and 8:00/women between October 1, 2020 and March 31, 2021. The ARA is hopeful that this camp does proceed and want to see as many U21 athletes in attendance as possible.
Every Coach Certified
The ARA reminds all of our coaches on the importance of meeting the requirements set out under RCA’s Every Coach Certified Initiative. Coaches have until March 31, 2021 to meet the requirements set forth by RCA and would encourage all those who are interested in coaching this summer to complete the necessary requirements ASAP. Details on this initiative are described in this link https://rowingcanada.org/uploads/2020/11/Coach-Education-Update-Fall-2020.pdf
Upcoming Events
On-Water Season – At clubs across the province – May 1, 2021 or sooner.