Jamestown, NC – High Point Rowing Club held its inaugural annual Ergathon today. The goal of the 2016 event was to raise $25,000 for new equipment and permanent boat racks at Oak Hollow Lake – and have a lot of fun doing so!
The rowers, comprised of middle school, high school, and Masters members of the Club were divided into two teams, ‘Navy’ and ‘White,’ on arrival at the Jamestown Erg Room. The two teams then raced each other over 100 kilometers in an erg relay in just under 4 hours. Each rower rowed 500 meters at a time in a duel until the 100 km (60+ miles) was completed.
Club members, local corporations, friends, and families responded to the ambitious fundraising goal with almost $15,000 raised before the first strokes were taken. Youth captains Victoria Goldin and Olivia Corierre then ‘threw out the first pitch’ to start the relays.
“This was a truly wonderful club event that brought together rowers from across all our Club programs,” said Masters rower and 2014 MVP Erin Sanders. “And it was close the entire way between the two teams, which just made it so exciting. Everyone stepped up and gave it their best.”
Ultimately, the Navy team just pipped the White team by meters at the finish line with high school senior Aliute Udoka bringing her team home in the final leg.
Ergathon director Amy Epling (Morgan’s Mum!) said the club is still receiving donations for the event and does not expect to ‘close the books’ for several weeks. “We are so grateful for all the support we have received,” said Amy. “Donations can still be made on the High Point Rowing Club website and all gifts over $125 will be recognized on our Club banner.”
Club founder, Gene Kininmonth thanked Amy Epling for her leadership to bring the first Ergathon to the club and her committee of Jackie King, Mary Hollingsworth, Mandy Greene, Connie Curri, and Erin Sanders for making it all happen. “You never really know when those truly special club moments will occur. Today is one we will cherish and remember,” said Gene.
