Olympia Area Rowing is situated on Budd Inlet, at the southern-most reach of Puget Sound. It is bordered by the stately trees of Squaxin Park, grand homes and cottages, marinas, restaurants and even a golf course. Gull Harbor, accessible only at high tide, is tucked away on the far side of a sand bar just to the northwest. The waters are home to playful harbor seals, perky geoducks (clams), and smacks of jellyfish, while eagles, herons, gulls and other water birds skim across the waves. Many mornings the water is flat/calm, with very little boat traffic. An ideal place for a morning row.
High School Team – Registration open via iCrew
Youth between 9th and 12th grade can participate in the high school program. Coaches work with rowers to help them continue to build physical fitness, mental strength, team skills, independence, confidence, and life skills. Practice sessions focus on multi-rower team boats and have a moderate coach-to-rower ratio. Competition plays a larger focus on the team and while not required, everyone is encouraged to compete.
| Season | DATES | Days | Times | Regattas | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring 2025 (6 sessions/week) | March 3 – thru – May 23 | M-Sat | M-F 4:00p to 6:30p Sat 9:15a to 11:30a | Multiple events with additional race fees (see season guide for details) | $890 |
Middle School Team – Registration open via iCrew
Youth in 7th and 8th grades can participate in the middle school program. Coaches work with rowers to help them learn sculling skills, feel comfortable, and gain confidence in a fun, no-stress environment of their peers. Practice sessions focus on 1-rower boats (sometimes 2-rower boats) and have a small coach-to-rower ratio.
| Season | DATES | Days | Times | Regattas | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring 2025 | March 10 – thru – May 9 | M-W-Th | 4:15p – to – 6:30p | 1 event | $470 |
Youth of color and those facing socio-economic barriers are encouraged to apply.
Before you sign up…