Rowing club comes to Lee County

One of the original sports in the modern Olympic Games finally has a home in Lee County, at The Marina at Cape Harbour.

There are 2,000 rowing clubs worldwide and approximately 40 active Youth Rowing programs in Florida, but none in our area, until now. The Cape Coral Rowing Club recently announced their formation and partnership with Cape Harbour.

"The Spreader Canal is one of the best places in the world to row; we want to enable more people to take advantage of it," said CCRC President John Bell. "Rowing is a total body workout, and for teenagers it opens up a world of college scholarship opportunities as most ivy-league schools offer rowing scholarships."

With the help of local business leaders, the CCRC Board of Directors plans to launch the organization this fall, consisting of two primary programs: a high school program open to all students, and a Masters/ Recreational program for ages 27 to 107.

Currently the CCRC is extending a Corporate Rowing Challenge to all Lee County businesses and individuals who would like to support this important community organization. The Challenge includes three levels of participation ranging from $35 to $10,000. All inaugural corporate teams will compete in the Grand Regatta at The Marina at Cape Harbour in the Spring. Funds raised through the challenge will play a vital role in purchasing the necessary equipment for the Youth and Masters Rowing programs. Sponsorships qualify for tax deduction under the provisions of 501(c) of the Internal Revenue Code.

The Rowing Club is thrilled by the support already received from Cape Harbour developer Realmark, the merchants at Cape Harbour and community residents including, SIM Gallery of Fine Arts, It's All About Jewels, Bradford Design and Company, Rumrunners as well as The Joint and Run Agrounds, who have donated generously to the club. Two world-class rowing coaches are signed up as well: Jerry Allway and Jim Heneghan, both of Cape Coral, with 30- years experience in the sport each.

The CCRC's mission is "to have the best youth and masters programs in the state." Individual and family memberships are available as well. For more information on becoming a member or sponsor, contact the CCRC at 334-4186 or alisjordan@earthlink. net. ¦