Row Like a Girl Media Release

Row Like a Girl: North Wollongong to host surfboat showcase.

Women of all ages have the opportunity to experience the thrill of surf boat rowing at North Wollongong Surf Life Saving Club’s ‘Row Like a Girl’ event on April 30.

‘Row Like a Girl’ aims to raise awareness of the sport amongst females and encourage new members to join the club’s respected boat division.

The event will be held in front of the surf club at North Wollongong beach between 9am and 2pm and will feature surf boat rowing demonstrations by the club’s Under 23 and Open Women’s crews, information sessions and a do-or-die race between North Wollongong and rival club Wollongong City. Attendees will even be able to hit the water themselves in a beginners training session with national medalist coach Martin Fox.

A free BBQ lunch will be provided between 11am and 1pm.

Club President Lance Tarrant said he hoped both young and older women would attend the event.

“Our club has a proud history of surf boat rowing since it was founded in 1914,” he said.

“We currently have three very successful women’s crews and are looking forward to signing up even more ladies for the 2012 season. I hope lots of people will come down to the beach, have a look at our crews in action and then give it a go for themselves. It really is great fun.”

North Wollongong Open Women’s crew member Jessica Boniface said the event’s training session would convert even the most hesitant beginner to the sport.

“So many women think surf rowing is dangerous,” she said.

“While it is definitely an extreme type of sport, North Wollongong has some of the best coaches around and no crew would ever be put into conditions they couldn’t handle. Anyone can learn to row and nothing beats the rush new girls will feel when they catch their first wave.”

‘Row Like a Girl’ will be held in front of the surf club at North Wollongong Beach from 9am-2pm on April 30.

Best photo/ filming opportunities: 12am (boat race) and 1pm (training session).

All media enquiries: Jenna Bradwell ph: 0400413534 email: jb194@uow.edu.au

For more information and full program of activities visit http://rowlikeagirlnwslsc.blogspot.com/