Looking for an exciting activity that gets you fit and into nature while on the waters of gorgeous White Rock Lake? Then sign up now for the rowing and dragon boating classes offered this spring by Dallas United Crew (DUC), Dallas’ largest youth oar and paddle sport organization in North Texas that offers comprehensive programs for all ages. Beginner and intermediate classes for adults and youth begin as early as March 4 and are offered at various times throughout the spring season. Online registration is available at dallasunitedcrew.org.
Ideal for people of all athletic backgrounds and ages, adult rowing uses eight-man sweep boats instructed by DUC coaches who teach basic rowing technique and boat handling and safety while conducting effective physical and mental workouts. Founded in Southern China centuries ago, dragon boating consists of 20 paddlers in a 46-foot-long boat with a steers person, moving to the beat of a drummer and paddling to cross the finish faster than their competition. No experience is required; however, boats will be organized based on skill level. Experienced rowers are welcome.
“We find that once people try rowing, they’re hooked. Dallas United Crew is ideal for people of all athletic backgrounds and ages. Not only is it a lot of fun, but rowing is a full-body, low-impact workout that is a terrific way to get or stay in shape,” said Jonathan Stevens, the DUC program director and former SMU crew coach and college athlete. “Best of all, you’re out on White Rock Lake, one of the most beautiful spots in Dallas.”
Adult rowing classes include “Intro To Rowing” offered March 4 - 20 and May 6 - 22 on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6 - 7:30 a.m. for $100 (per course). “Recreational Rowing” courses are available March 4 - April 24 and May 6 - June 26 on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6 - 7:30 a.m. for $200 (per course). A “Racing Season” course will run May 6 - June 26 on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6 - 7:30 a.m. and Saturdays from 1 - 3 p.m. for $250. (Practices will focus on competing at the Stars and Stripes Regatta in Oklahoma City on June 28 – regatta fees not included).
Adult dragon boating classes include a “Dragon Boat Intro” course offered March 18 - April 8 on Tuesdays from 6:30 - 8 p.m. for $70. A “Dragon Boat Intermediate” course will be held March 18 - May 13 on Tuesdays from 6:30 - 8 p.m. for $150. (Practices will focus on competing at the DFW Dragon Boat Festival on May 18 – regatta fees not included).
Youth classes include dragon boating for 6th - 9th graders available March 19 - April 30 on Wednesdays from 4:30 - 6 p.m. and Saturdays from 1 - 2:30 p.m. for $250.
The classes will be taught at the Dallas United Crew site located on the east side of White Rock Lake, between White Rock Sailing Club and Corinthian Boat Club at 417 E. Lawther. (Please enter E. Lawther from Mockingbird Lane.)
Dallas United Crew is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization. For more information, contact Progams@DallasUnitedCrew.org or visit dallasunitedcrew.org.