White Rock Rowing Pair Win National Championship
DALLAS, TX, JUNE 30, 2014 – Collin McKinney and Robert Bolt of White Rock Rowing brought home the club’s first National title, winning the Men’s Varsity Pair race at the USRowing Youth National Championship, held June 13-15 in Sacramento, California.
McKinney, a senior at Hillcrest High School and Bolt, a senior from Woodrow Wilson High School, pulled slightly ahead of the competition and held the lead for nearly 1500 meters. With 250 meters to go, the duo sprinted to the finish, capturing the National title and becoming the fastest youth pair in the country.
“Collin and Robert have been the heart and soul of the men’s squad,” said Alex Binkowski, director of White Rock Rowing. “They have led the team in everything - rowing, erg scores, attendance, attitude, and work ethic. The pair is one of the more difficult boats to race, requiring great skill and cooperation. They have definitely earned their title.”
Youth Nationals saw more than 1800 athletes, representing 133 clubs and high school rowing programs from 106 cities, racing at the highest level of competition for high school rowing over a three-day period. The White Rock Rowing juniors team has qualified for Nationals four of the last five years, with this year’s championship capping off their most successful season to date.
About White Rock Rowing
Along with the Big Boathouse, one of the country’s largest, a 1930s-era boat slip, and The Filter Building event venue, White Rock Rowing is a dynamic rowing community that began in 2003 with the $3,000,000 redevelopment of abandoned city waterworks facilities. Proceeds from rentals of The Filter Building help fund rowing operations and outreach efforts that include an adaptive rowing program for people with physical limitations, as well as middle school, juniors, and masters rowing programs. White Rock Rowing offers financial aid that makes it possible for every child interested in rowing to participate. To find out more, visit the website at whiterockrowing.org.