Lakeland Rowing Club Launches Bursary Scheme to Make Rowing More Accessible

Lakeland Rowing Club in Keswick is making waves with their new bursary scheme aimed at making rowing more accessible to all. The club, nestled on the picturesque Derwentwater, is determined to break down the barriers that often come with the perception of rowing as an elitist sport.

The John Inman Fund, named after one of the club’s founding members, is designed to give local residents of all ages the opportunity to get involved in rowing, regardless of their financial circumstances. Club chair Julia McCumiskey emphasized that rowing is for everyone, not just the elite, and that the club’s members are ordinary locals who simply enjoy spending time on the water in the stunning Cumbrian scenery.

With membership fees already the lowest in the country, the club is going one step further by offering financial assistance to those who may find the cost of learning to row prohibitive. By applying to the bursary fund, individuals can receive help to pay for courses and membership, ensuring that rowing remains an accessible and inclusive sport for all.

The impact of the bursary scheme is already being felt, with Aggie being the club’s first recipient. She expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to finally try rowing, something she had always wanted to do but found financially challenging. Now, as a member of the club, she feels a true sense of belonging and looks forward to her Saturday morning rowing sessions.

For those interested in taking up rowing, Lakeland Rowing Club has upcoming adult and junior learn-to-row courses scheduled throughout the summer. With the support of the bursary fund, now is the perfect time to dive into the world of rowing and experience the joy of gliding across the water on Derwentwater.