Together as One
The Calgary Rowing Club is built on community, teamwork and a shared love of being on the water. Our story stretches from humble beginnings to a thriving club that welcomes athletes of all ages and experience levels. Here is a look at our history, our mission, and the values that guide everything we do.
Our History
The Calgary Rowing Club began in 1966 when a small group of determined rowers met at a Calgary YMCA and decided to bring the sport to Glenmore Reservoir. With borrowed equipment and a great deal of resourcefulness, they launched their first crew later that year.
From those early days in a simple wooden shed on the reservoir bank, the Club has grown into a modern facility that is recognized across Western Canada. Over the decades, the Club has been shaped by committed athletes, volunteers, coaches, and board members who worked together to build a strong foundation for both recreational and competitive rowing.
The Club’s achievements are wide ranging. Crews have earned success at Canadian Henley, Canadian National Championships, and the Henley Royal Regatta in the United Kingdom. The Calgary Rowing Club has also supported athletes who went on to represent Canada at the Olympic Games.
Our history is more than medals and milestones. The Club has always focused on growing rowing for everyone. This includes the development of a strong Junior program, a Para program recognized on the international stage, and inclusive recreational rowing that embraces fun, fitness and community spirit.
Today, we remain committed to building on this legacy by creating opportunities for all athletes to learn, train, and enjoy the sport.
Our Vision
Our vision is to build a thriving, diverse, and welcoming rowing community that supports individuals as they develop into lifelong participants in the sport through rowing.
Our Mission
Our mission is to deliver a balanced portfolio of complementary rowing programs supported by highly trained coaches in a safe and inclusive environment where physical and mental wellbeing are the priority.
Our Values
Diversity and Inclusion
Rowing is a sport for everybody and every body, where all are welcome, respected, and supported.
Respect and Responsibility
We treat others, in both words and actions, as we wish to be treated. We celebrate success with humility, remain open and honest, and take accountability for what we say and do.
Commitment and Cooperation
The CRC is the sum of all of us. We are one team, and we achieve more together with a positive and “can do” approach.
Heart
With passion for the sport, our people, and their growth, we support individuals as they develop into lifelong participants in sport through rowing.
Our Commitment
We are committed to maintaining a safe, supportive, and inspiring environment. This includes providing well-maintained equipment, qualified coaching, strong safety standards, and programs designed to meet the needs of a diverse rowing community.
At the Calgary Rowing Club, our commitment to equity is reflected in our daily practices and policies. Everyone is welcome at the Club, regardless of race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, physical ability, or any other aspect of identity.
We recognize that we may not fully understand the challenges others face, but we stand with every member of our community. You are always welcome in the Calgary Rowing Club community and we are proud to be one team creating a space that is kind, inclusive and respectful every day.
Safety at the Calgary Rowing Club
Safety is a core pillar of our operations. Our policies ensure that all athletes, volunteers, and guests are able to enjoy rowing in a responsible and well-supervised environment. The Club follows clear procedures for on-water training, weather conditions, equipment use, and emergency response. We also encourage all members to complete required safety training and stay informed of seasonal updates.
Become a member
Join a supportive rowing community with access to coaching, equipment, facilities, and year-round training opportunities.
Find the program that fits you
From youth to masters, recreational to high-performance, discover training options for every age and experience level.