VISITING & GUEST ROWERS
Row with us as a guest
Edmonton’s scenic river valley is best enjoyed with oars in the water. If you’re visiting town (tourist, business trip, visiting family) and you’re an experienced rower, we’d love to have you row with us. ERC offers Drop-In Sessions where you can join with one of our scheduled practices as a guest.
Eligibility:
- An individual who holds current membership in another Canadian rowing club and in RCA may row with the ERC up to 5 times per year without fees.
Requirements:
- Contact the Membership Director to request access to the ERC
- Provide proof of current membership at another Canadian club
- Row only during scheduled ERC programs
- Abide by the Membership Director / Club Manager’s decision as to which program(s) you may row with and what equipment can be used
- Complete a Waiver and Assumption of Liability form
FAQ: VISITING ROWER INFO
I'm not experienced, can I still row?
We only accept experienced rowers as drop-ins. However, you could join a short learn-to-row session in summer or try our Intro Classes. Find more information on our learn-to-row programming here.
Is there a fee for guests?
No. As long as you hold proof of membership with another Canadian Club and with RCA, you may row with us up to 5 times per year.
Do I need to sign-up for a session?
Our coaches set boats in advance of our sport/recreational sessions. After communicating with our Membership Director, you will be connected with on of our Sport/Recreational Coaches. Please ensure you communicate at which practices you will be in attendance, and our Sport Coaches will ensure you’re boated accordingly.
Can university rowers visiting for the summer join?
Absolutely. We have a special “University Student Summer Membership” for temporary students from May through August. Once your membership is purchased, be sure to connect with our Membership Director to discuss which program you are best suited. You will then be connected with the appropriate coach.
When can I row?
The Membership Director or Club Manager will provide you with information about which program you will be rowing with and in what equipment.
Can I take club equipment out on the river on my own?
No. Our club policies state that all club equipment can only be on the river with a safety boat (coach) present. As we row on a river with a current, you must be in sight of the coach boat at all times. Please note, the North Saskatchewan River is a winding river – therefore, it is easy to get ahead and out of sight of the coach. This rule and other safety standards will be shared with you prior to your first on-water session.
Do I need a PFD?
Most definitely. The City of Edmonton Public Spaces Bylaw clearly states that all users of the North Saskatchewan River wear a PFD (life jacket). The Edmonton Rowing Club has been granted an exception to the rule – we can use inflatable belt PFDs. These are still a mandatory requirement. The club has extra Mustang belt PFD’s to loan to visiting rowers.