Category: Rowing

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Updates to RV Return to Rowing Roadmap – good news for crew boats.

You may have seen the good news via social media or email, Rowing Victoria has updated their Return to Rowing Roadmap over the past 24 hours. With rowing now classified as a non contact sport, crew boats will be able to be rowed when rowing is able to recommence. 

Recommencement of rowing is scheduled when we move into the Third Step of the States recovery, this is scheduled for 26 October for Melbourne subject to meeting certain case related hurdles. Training numbers will be limited to10 at any time and only the toilets and change rooms will be accessible – similar to the initial reopening last time.

Over the coming weeks the Committee will assess our plans and procedures to return to make sure we can meet any of the requirements and set out our plans. We will also be working closely with MLC as our tennant to consider the use of the facilities for all parties as best as possible.

Given we hope to be back on water soon, it’s a great time to get your body ready for rowing to prevent injury after a long time off water. Financial club members have been receiving weekly session plans/training programs including access to join the club zoom sessions, it’s a great time to engage with these and rebuild your fitness.

Full details of the RV Return to Rowing Roadmap can be found here https://www.rowingvictoria.asn.au/news/return-to-victorian-rowing-roadmap-guidelines/

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RRC to be closed from end of 8 July

Consistent with the new Victorian State Guidelines, including the closure of community sport and gyms, RRC will close to all member activities from midnight tomorrow. This will remain in place until at least August 19th.

If you have anything at the club that you need through the lock down please arrange for it to be removed tomorrow before the restrictions formally commence.

Don’t forget the regular yoga via Zoom with Gerry. No doubt coaches will be in touch with some innovative training in lock down and maybe some more strava competitions.

The AGM will go ahead as planned, but we will arrange this via an on-line forum – look out for details soon.

Stay safe everyone.

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RRC COVID-19 Return to rowing requirements – changes from 22 June 2020

Based on the most recent Victoria State Government Guidelines, the following changes will come into effect to the previously issued RRC guidelines from Monday 22 June:

  • Increase in the number of people able to sign up to a session to 20
  • These 20 must book either a single or an ergo to use in the club through sportsnoticeboard
  • The gym (weights etc) is not to be used given the small size of the space. We will consider further updates based on further changes to regulations
  • Ergs may be used on the deck or in the main hall, 1.5m distancing between ergs must be observed. The ergs must be booked through sports notice board in the same way as a single so the number of people at the club and contact details can be
  • Change rooms and showers are reopened – please abide by the numbers that they are restricted to
  • Number of sessions per week people can access increased to 4 times a week, but only one session per day. We will continue to monitor this

To reconfirm session times are:
Saturday and Sundays

  • Session lengths will be reduced to 2.5 hours. This should still provide up to 2 hours on water time and enough time to wash and rack boats and oars
  • Sessions will commence at the following times 7.30am, 10am, 12.30pm, 3pm, 5.30pm – this increases daylight sessions from 3 to 4 and may encourage a few early rises given the 6am slot was not well used

Weekdays (no changes)

  • Session lengths remain at 3 hours
  • Sessions commence at the following times 6am, 9am, 12pm, 3pm and 6pm. This has been maintained as it allows pre and post work sessions with the daytime sessions being underutilised.

Further changes are foreshadowed on 7 July. When we have clarity on these changes by the Victorian State Government or any changes advised by Rowing Victoria we will take these into account.

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RRC Presentation Night 2020

A very different Presentation Night was held for the 2019/20 season. Around 60 of us gathered via Zoom to relive some of the statistics from the year along with saying thank you to our coaches and volunteers following what has been an unusual year.

We celebrated our Male and Female rowers of the year. These prestigious awards are determined through participation and success at regattas, club races and club time trials. The winners on the evening were:

  • Mal Scott Award – Male Club Rower of the Year – Dario Sportelli
  • John Sawyer – Female Club Rower of the Year – Kirsty Fergie

Due to the early end to the season no Masters awards were presented this year.

The Don Edwards, Cox of the year award was presented to Derek Begg.

The President’s Award was presented to Stefanie Dudczig, reflecting her dedication to Richmond Rowing Club. Stef is a great contributor to the club, acting as our New Member coordinator, communicating with and welcoming new members to the club. Stef volunteers whenever she can, regularly coxing our crews, this year she also completed her Level 1 BRO accreditation Stef also actively competed for Richmond through the year.

The Hendley Family Mixed Quad Time Trial was presented by Rod Hendley to Michelle Joy, Dennis Beck, Red Skelton, Geraldine Goss and Derek Begg (coxswain).

The Keith Millar male coxed four Round the Island time trial was won by Alan Randall, Jon Roberts, Michael Gehling, Dennis Beck and Derek Begg (coxswain).

The Keith Millar female coxed four Round the Island time trial was won by Michelle Joy, Kate Dyball, Karen Doggett, Geraldine Goss and Ainsley Raggatt (coxswain).

The Jim Barton Males Tub Single time trial was won by Dennis Beck and the Jim Barton Female Tub Single time trial was won by Kirsty Fergie.

A number of other awards were presented on the night including:

  • Box Biting Champion – Keith Wong
  • Captains Award – The Trailer Drivers
  • Eye of the Tiger Award – Gypsy and Lily
  • Best and Furriest – Amy Catlin
  • Tough Tiger – Dennis Beck

We also celebrated our Victorian State Championship winners in 2020, pictures of these crews will be displayed in the club. The crews were:

  • Female A Grade double: Kate Dyball and Michelle Joy
  • Male B Grade single: Dario Sportelli

Thank you to all those who contributed to such a good night including Tim Evans our MC for the evening and Kim Begelhole for sharing videos from the season.

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RRC COVID-19 Return to Rowing Requirements – effective Saturday 16 May 2020

The Victorian Government recently released revised guidance in relation to COVID-19 restriction and relaxation of some requirements which related to sports, cultural and recreation activities. Rowing Victoria has released draft guidance and recommendations related to a safe return to rowing which are attached to this email.

RRC have set out the following guidelines that must be observed by all members who choose to row from Saturday 16 May 2020 until updated, a failure to follow these guidelines could result in fines to the individual, but would lead the Committee to consider ceasing members ability to row until we are comfortable the guidelines can be met by all.

RRC Requirements for a safe return to rowing:

  • If you are unwell or display any symptoms you must not attend the club to train. Members should consider their own wellbeing and that of others when considering whether to row. By attending and signing out a boat you are confirming you do not feel unwell and are not displaying any COVID-19 symptoms. If you have a positive test in relation to COVID-19 please let the Committee know immediately so we can assess any possible contact with club members we may take appropriate action regarding club facilities.
  • Social distancing must be maintained including keeping 1.5 meters apart, not congregating within or outside of the shed. There should be no physical greetings etc. Frequent hand washing and good hygiene is requirement to be observed.
  • There will be no indoor activities at the club, the gym, kitchen and main hall remain closed and gathering in the club will not be permitted.
  • Toilet access is available (preferred downstairs to limit upstairs club access), but the change room and showers are not allowed to be used. It is advised to dress for training before arriving at the club. Valuables should be left at home as change room access is not allowed. Fobs will be reactivated for the back door only to limit access to parts of the club that are closed.
  • Training sessions will be limited to 10 people – See below for rostering and sign up arrangements to enable this on a fair basis. It will not be possible to turn up to the club to row without signing up in advance so the 10 person limit is not exceeded. Private boats will not be in excess of this number, the 10 person limit and rostering/sign up requirements will be across the club whether using club or private equipment. Anyone at the club will be part of this 10 person limit, if tradesman are at the club we will be required to reduce the number of people able to row in sessions as a result.
  • Single sculls only will be allowed. All members must sign up and sign out to track attendance and boat usage.
  • All equipment must be thoroughly washed – following the guidance we put in place prior to the club closing.
  • Members are required to clean frequently touched club fixtures at the end of the session. Whilst we engage paid cleaners, we cannot have them present multiple times a day, members are therefore required to clean frequently touched fixtures – detailed guidance on items to be cleaned is attached to this email.
  • Every session is required to have a safety officer to oversee these requirements – this role will be taken on by a coach if present, if not the first person to sign up to a session (see below) will act as the safety officer. All members who agree to row must be willing to take on this role so the club can demonstrate its compliance, if not please do not attend the training session. The RV Safety Officer Checklist is attached to this email.

Rostering and sign up requirements

So we can adhere to limiting training sessions to 10 people and limit cross over of members between sessions the following applies:

  • Sessions will be 2 hours in length, however they will be scheduled in 3 hour blocks starting 6am, 9am, 12pm, 3pm and 6pm. This is to allow for no cross over of members, therefore sessions should finish 2 hours after start time i.e. 6am session starts at 6am and finished at 8am.
  • Sign up is required by sportsnoticeboard. We have created 10 sign ups in the “Club Resources” called “COVID Training Session #01, COVID Training Session #02……” . Book one of these 10 Club Resource for the session you are planning to attend, also book the single you plan to row (if it is a private boat only book one of the 10 Club Resources. Once these 10 Club Resources are booked the session is full.
  • If you do not have a Club Resource booked for a session do not turn up hoping to row (or for any other purpose) – you will be breaching the Victorian Government guidelines and putting our ability to operate as a club at risk.
  • In order to maintain equity across the club membership, each member is limited to 2 sessions a week at the current time (these must be on different days). We will review this number after a week depending on the bookings. If you can row during the day Monday to Friday we ask that you consider this so provide greater access to all members.
  • The 12pm session on Saturday and Sunday will be designated to our less experienced scullers (ie DS), this will be a confirmed coached session during daylight hours. If a coach is not available inexperienced members should not be rowing.

All members must follow these guidelines, if not we will be required to close the club. We will regularly review the guidelines and provide updates where appropriate.

Online yoga sessions continue via Zoom on Saturday at 4pm and Wednesday at 5.30pm. Email [email protected] to sign up.

We are also considering arranging some outdoor training land sessions that would be limited to 10 people appropriately distanced. These would be near but away from the club to ensure we do not breach the 10 person rules. Look out for communications soon.

Rowing-Victoria-Guidelines-For-The-Return-to-Rowing-During-COVID-19-13-5-20Download
Safety-Officer-Checklist-–-Covid-19Download
RRC-members-cleaning-list-for-the-end-of-each-sessionDownload
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Working towards a safe return to rowing at RRC

As you all would be aware the Victorian Government recently released revised guidance in relation to COVID-19 restriction and relaxation of some requirements which related to sports, cultural and recreation activities.

Rowing Victoria has released draft guidance and recommendations related to a safe return to rowing. Whilst these guidelines are not finalised or approved at the current time, the Committee is putting in place procedures in order that we can get back to rowing. We hope these can be in place by the weekend, however they are contingent on us being able to meet the guidelines. Please look out for further communication on the details that we all will be required to adhere to.

Among the requirements will be following:

  • If you are unwell or display any symptoms you must not attend the club to train. Members should consider their own well being and that of others when considering whether to row.
  • There will be no indoor activities at the club, the gym will remain closed and gathering in the club will not be permitted.
  • There will be access to the toilets, but the change room and showers are not allowed to be used. It is advised to dress for training before arriving at the club
  • Training sessions will be limited to 10 people (including any coaches) – we are working on a rostering and sign up system to enable this on a fair basis. It will not be possible to turn up to the club to row without signing up in advance so the 10 person limit is not exceeded. Private boats will not be in excess of this number, the 10 person limit and rostering/sign up requirements will be across the club whether using club or private equipment.
  • Single sculls only will be allowed. All members must sign out to track attendance and boat usage. Members must have passed swim tests and coxswains tests in order to row a single. Please work with your coach if you do not consider yourself competent in a single.
  • All equipment must be thoroughly washed – following the guidance we put in place prior to the club closing. We are reviewing our procedures and supplies.
  • Social distancing must be maintained including keeping 1.5 meters apart, not congregating within or outside of the shed. There should be no physical greetings etc. Frequent hand washing and good hygiene is required to be observed.

Once the requirements and our procedures are finalised to support a safe return to rowing, we will confirm the requirements that must be adhered to. 
We hope this will be in place to allow for a return to rowing at RRC over the weekend.

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RRC to be closed from the end of Monday 23 March

With the proposed Victorian non-essential services shut down announced we have concluded that the club should be closed to members from the end of Monday 23 March. This will allow members 24 hours to remove any personal items from the club should they require. Following this we will turn off access to the club through the fob system, with Committee members maintaining access for emergency and critical access only.
I trust everyone understands this decision. Whilst it is disappointing to not have access to the club and the opportunity to row we encourage club members to stay in touch and support each other via the internet, phone etc during this challenging time.
The planned yoga session for tomorrow is now cancelled. We plan to coordinate for the coaching group to design remote training plans for squads, we will also look into the possibility of using the technology to facilitate group sessions also. As the detail of the non-essential services shut down is clearer we will communicate if any outdoor sessions (yoga, core strength, running etc) may be arranged, but for now we are pausing all group sessions.
Please stay in touch with your fellow club members through Facebook, I am sure the club spirit will continue this way, if there are things you need help with individually or ways we can help others please reach out as a group.
The club remains in a strong financial position and will be ready to reopen when the time is right. Look out for for further communications from the club.
Thank you

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Updated RRC COVID-19 requirements – 21 March 2020

On water training times – changes in place must be followed from Sunday 22 March
As a result of updated guidance around social distancing and limiting the number of people gathering indoors via the 4m2 per person guidance we have decided to implement a strict at club training timetable by crew group. This timetable provides available sessions by training group (Black squad, yellow squad, development squad, Tiger rowing and other squad groups). If you are not in a squad you are allocated to the Tiger rowing/other session and open session times.
It is also split my male and female and in 2 hour windows (ie the 12pm session runs to 2pm, 2 hour windows that are not included are open sessions ie 4pm). See below.

For members wishing to train from the club the timetable must be followed, should it not be, the club would be required to close, as we would not feel we are able to meet the updated guidelines.
This requirement applies from tomorrow, Sunday 22 March. Sportsnoticeboard sessions with be updated ASAP.
Requirement to book boats
All boats must be booked on sportsnoticeboard.com.au, you must then sign out in the sign out book. For squad sessions our coach is required to book on sportsnoticeboard. For open sessions boats can be booked by individuals. This is essential so we can track who has rowed together and when in the event we are required to track members interactions should there be a positive case involving someone present at the club.
If you are having difficulties with sportsnoticeboard please reach out to the Head of Rowing.
Boat types available
From now on we are limiting boat to singles, pair and doubles. Fours/Quad and Eights are no longer allowed to be used.
Good hygiene continues to be essential
See the detailed guidance from previous posts. Please wash hands, boats, oars etc. Clean ergs thoroughly. Shower after training. Do not leave used towels and clothing in change room. Please follow all signs within the club.
Cleaning of boats and oars
Detailed instructions instructions have been left in the boat bay. They must be followed at all times.
Gym and Ergo access
The gym is closed. Ergo’s are available for use, but must be separated by 1.5 meters and strict cleaning is required to be followed as previously communicated. Preferred usage is outside on the deck, there are 4 standing in the classroom to be rolled out to the deck. Erg’s have also been spaced in the hall and classroom. We have no function bookings until the end of April, these erg’s in the hall and classroom are not to be moved.
Change room access
Given their size, the number of people in change rooms is to be limited as follows, women’s change room – 6 people, MLC change room – 6 people, men’s change room 4 people. I understand this will make it challenging, please be patient and respectful. If there are multiple sessions on a day arrive early and be prepared in advance so you are away from the change room when returning rowers need them. This is essential, if we can’t make this work we will have to reassess club access.
Yoga to replace boxercise
We have unfortunately cancelled our Monday night boxercise. We are replacing this with Yoga at 6.15pm on Monday. This will be run by Geraldine Goss. Please bring your own mat and towel, the club mats are not to be used. If you do not have a mat and towel you will not be able to participate.
Boat Lights
As the mornings and nights get darker please ensure you use lights on all boats. The club has a limited number, with increased use of smaller boats we recommend that those planning on rowing through winter obtain their own lights where possible. There are a number of online suppliers, including
https://shop.perfectbalancerowing.com/product-category/boatlights/
Shoes
All RRC boats have shoes available. However in the current environment some rowers may wish to source their own shoes. Check out this blog for guidance or reach out to the Captain. rrc fleet installed quick release rowing shoe system-
Finally, if you feel unwell do not visit the club – please follow Government advice if you present with any symptoms or if you have travelled overseas.
If you have a positive test in relation to COVID-19 please let the Committee know immediately so we can assess your contact with club members and facilities and we may take appropriate action regarding club facilities.
We will continue to provide regular updates as the advice and situation develops.

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Updated RRC actions re COVID-19 – important actions to be adhered to

The situation continues to develop quickly, with the AHPCC providing guidance related to Community Sports including gym today.
The Committee is conscious of the positive physical and mental well being effects of rowing and social activity at this time and would like to keep the club operating as much as possible, however we are also taking into account official guidance provided.
It is important to understand that community sport and gyms have not been closed at the current time, however guidance continues to evolve.
The club remains open for those wanting to train and row, this is in line with current guidance should there be any update we will let you know. Members should consider the guidance and their personal situation to make their own decisions on how you train.
As a result of the guidance RRC have taken the following actions as of today, we would appreciate your support to address this:

  • The gym is closed – Given the close proximity and cleaning issues the gym area (weights etc) is closed immediately until we have an appropriate cleaning strategy in place to align with expert guidance. This is non negotiable for everyone’s safety.
  • Ergos and Ergbike must be separated by 1.5m when used – the ergos are available for use on the deck (preferred), in the classroom and main hall. Please bring and use your own towel. They must be separated by at least 1.5m when in use. Before use, wash your hand thoroughly and clean the erg. After use thoroughly clean the erg with wipes provided, wash your hand and shower.
  • Monday night boxercise is cancelled due to close proximity of exercise – we suggest coordinating and group or individual run outside in the short term. We are looking at running a yoga or core session, look out for details, however your own mats etc will be required.
  • On water activities continue to be available with appropriate hygiene considerations – consider your own circumstances and assess attendance at training. We plan to allocate training time to squads before Sunday to encourage social distancing at the club and in the change rooms where possible along with access to smaller boats
  • All boats must be booked online – in order to track boat usage we require all boats to be booked using Sportsnoticeboard. This should be in line with squad training time allocations. Please also include all crew names in sign out sheets to track who rowed with who.

Good hygiene continues to be essential. See the detailed guidance from previous posts. Please wash hands, boats, oars etc. Clean ergs thoroughly. Shower after training. Do not leave used towels and clothing in change rooms.
If you feel unwell do not visit the club  – please follow Government advice if you present with any symptoms or if you have travelled overseas.
If you have a positive test in relation to COVID-19 please let the Committee know immediately so we can assess your contact with club members and facilities and we may take appropriate action regarding club facilities.
We will continue to provide regular updates as the advice and situation develops.

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Rowing Victoria recommendations for rowing training related to COVID-19

Following on from our previous guidance on hygiene when at the club and training, Rowing Victoria have recently issued these recommendations for rowing training.
Rowing Victoria recommendations for rowing training
There is lots of useful information in here to consider should you be training, please read it and take it into account.
The club remains open for those wanting to train and row, this is in line with current guidance should there be any update we will let you know.
Members should consider the guidance and their personal situation to make their own decisions on how you train.
I would like to highlight the following points:

  • If you are feeling unwell or exhibiting any of the symptoms we ask you to stay away from the club and follow Government guidance
  • Hygiene is essential – wash your hands, wipe down gym equipment after use, wash oar handles before and after rowing, shower following training
  • Bring a towel to the gym
  • Remove all personal items from change rooms that are not in lockers – there should be no towels or rowing clothes left in change rooms or hanging on lockers
  • Avoid large groups training close together inside – space out the ergo, there is the classroom, hall and outside

Thank you

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