Longtails Club To Row Middle-To-End
[Written by Stephen Wright]
Eight young people from Longtails Rowing Club will take part in the Convex End-to-End on Saturday [May 2].
The club, launched in August last year by Zoe Oduntan and operating under the Bermuda Rowing Association, will field rowers aged between 13 and 16 in the 12-mile Middle-to-End leg.
“This is our first opportunity to participate in the Convex End-to-End as a group, and we wanted to make it happen for as many of us as wanted to participate,” Oduntan, 13, told Bernews. “Some rowers have been training since the club began, while others joined more recently, but everyone has improved and gained confidence.
“The coaches have helped us develop both on the water and in the erg room.” Oduntan, who previously trained with the Bermuda Pilot Gig Club, said the rowers had trained in doubles and quads in preparation.
“It’s only the water conditions I am concerned about, but we have an alternate plan in place if it gets choppier than we would like,” she said. “Coach Willie [Forbes] has been very helpful in guiding us on the best way to complete the row safely. Our coaches play a huge role in getting us ready. “
Erik Gotfredsen, who is also driving the launch on Saturday, David Stubbs, Dirk Hasselkuss, Tricia Riley, and Amir Thomas have all helped train us. “Barbara O’Shaughnessy also supports the team when needed, and Coach Tricia also works with us every week to improve our erg performance and stamina.
“The club has grown thanks to the time and sacrifice of the coaches, who are all busy people but still come out every week to train us. We run about five to six sessions each week.” Oduntan said the event held special significance for the team.
“It feels amazing to be part of an event that brings so many people in Bermuda together,” she said. “For me, the Convex End-to-End is not just about rowing; it is about teamwork, community, and supporting good causes.”
Another member taking part, Salem Jackson-Smith, said: “I am very excited to be making history as a Longtails rower in this year’s Middle-to-End. “Hopefully, this will become an annual event for our youth rowing team.”
Alasdair Penz, who will also be rowing, added: “Being part of the Longtails has really helped me grow as a rower. I’ve learned a lot about teamwork and pushing myself, and I’m excited to take part in the End-to-End and represent the club.”
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