As the water drains from the canal, it’s an opportune time to assess the inaugural season of Brockport Community Rowing (BCR), a season that very nearly did not happen. After more than a decade of planning and preparation, including constructing a new boathouse and dock, and accruing rowing equipment (shells, oars, a motorized launch boat, etc.), BCR saw its efforts squelched on July 7 when the Brockport Village Board voted to terminate the five-year permit between the Village and BCR, and discontinue construction on the nearly completed boathouse. After considerable pushback from the public and other entities, the Village Board reconsidered its earlier actions and allowed BCR to operate through October and approved completion of the boathouse.
With permission to operate out of the newly completed boathouse, BCR began its first season with a Learn to Row Day in early August, when 35 participants crewed for the very first time. This was followed by an eight-session Learn to Row Program with 16 beginners. Interest in the program was overwhelming; twice as many people signed up than the boats could hold. In September and October, BCR operated an Intermediate Rowing Program at full capacity with 16 rowers. Last month, two boatloads rowed in the Drain the Ditch Fund Row. In addition to rowing, dozens participated in yoga programs and rowing-machine workouts at the boathouse. All of these events were open to the public.
BCR has grown to over 120 members, and the organization exists due to the efforts of dozens of individuals: volunteers, donors, coxswains, and coaches who worked tirelessly to get the operation up and running. Despite the rocky start, BCR’s first season on the canal was a success, and public support has been exceptional. Rowers, from novice to experienced, were finally able to row in Brockport.
Behind the scenes, BCR and the Village have been working to establish a permit that is satisfactory to both sides. At the time of this writing (December 16), they have not been able to establish an agreement allowing BCR to operate from the boathouse beyond March 2026. After a highly successful first season, not to mention a decade of investment and preparation, it would be unfortunate if BCR were not able to operate next season. Even though the canal is currently closed, BCR needs the off-season to prepare its equipment and plan for next year. With so much public interest, BCR intends to increase its programming when the canal reopens in the spring. However, it first needs permission from the Village.
If you’re interested in learning more about Brockport Community Rowing, visit facebook.com/brockportrowing or brockportrowing.org.
John Keiser, Board Member
Brockport Community Rowing
