LYR News

We understand that the past couple of months have been some of the most challenging that the UK has seen for many years and that these challenges will potentially continue for the remainder of the summer, and possibly towards the end of the year. London Youth Rowing has been working hard to keep our staff and young people safe and well, whilst ensuring that they continue to be engaged and participating in many different on-line sessions, training groups and even some virtual races.

As of Wednesday 13th May, people in England are able to leave their homes to exercise and spend time outdoors for recreation. All forms of watersports practiced on open waterways are now permitted, including but not limited to: rowing, sailing, windsurfing and the use of privately-owned motorised craft (in line with guidance issued by the relevant navigation authority). Please note, that whilst the UK Government has clearly indicated that rowing is permissible in England subject to the guidelines outlined above, there are still restrictions to getting out on the water. Whilst an individual rowing their own single scull or in a double / pair with members of the same household is now acceptable, at present, it is not permissible that a group of people from different households meet together to row.

However, while we would like to start on-water sessions as soon as safely possible, the current restrictions that prohibit meeting with more than one person from another household would limit any possible session to a single coach. In our view, in this scenario, any potential capsizes would put our staff and participants at risk and so until these guidelines change further LYR will not run any on-water rowing sessions.

The facilities where we operate are re-opening slowly but at the time of writing, the Royal Docks remains closed as does the water. We do know that as the lockdown gradually eases more activity will become permissible and we would therefore urge you to be patient, try and enjoy this forced break from rowing and encourage you to keep logging into the online sessions and training groups. But, more importantly than all of this – stay safe, healthy and well.

We would also encourage you to refer to the British Rowing guidance relating to Coronavirus and reopening the sport.

Please contact us with any further questions or concerns on info@londonyouthrowing.com.