WE ARE
LOUD AND PROUD.
Photo credits: M.V. Jantzen, Chantel Sheaks
About DC Strokes Rowing Club
DC Strokes Rowing Club (DCSRC) is committed to building an inclusive environment, fostering personal growth, and promoting a spirit of sportsmanship. DCSRC programs offer opportunities for all rowers, regardless of experience level. Today, DCSRC is one of only a handful of dedicated, independent LGBTQ+ rowing clubs in the world, along with the Chicago Rowing Union, the London Otters of England, the Zurich Penguins of Switzerland, and the Melbourne Argonauts in Australia.
The team began in 1991 with eight gay runners looking for a cross-training activity, some old rented equipment, and a lot of enthusiasm. It took only two or three years for the team to grow into a cohesive organization that was competing regularly and ready to make the commitment to purchase racing shells and other equipment. Originally rowing on the Potomac River, DCSRC became a proud member of the Anacostia Community Boathouse in 2004 and now rows on the Anacostia River. DCSRC is also a member organization of USRowing Association.
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DCSRC holds fast to the conviction that LGBTQ+ rowers can be formidable athletes and competitors. Our goal is for DCSRC to be a platform for competitive success and to increase the profile of LGBTQ+ rowers in the rowing community while promoting a spirit of camaraderie amongst our members. Our programs are open to all rowers, and we aspire foremost to create a safe and supportive environment for LGBTQ+ rowers and their allies.
Photo credit: M.V. Jantzen
Mission
Building on a legacy of inclusion as the Nation’s oldest LGBTQ+ rowing club, DC Strokes Rowing Club (DSCRC) offers access to the competitive sport of rowing to people of all backgrounds and athletic abilities in the greater Washington, DC area at their home in the Anacostia River by:
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Providing an opportunity for people to learn, develop, compete, and succeed in a supportive environment,
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Developing outreach programs that promote general fitness, rowing, and environmental stewardship to individuals who might otherwise not have such opportunities,
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Empowering and raising the visibility of LGBTQ+ athletes.
Photo credit: Paul Heaton
Our Programs
We row out of the Anacostia Community Boathouse and welcome all abilities, from beginners to experienced rowers.
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In addition to our weekly training sessions, we race in regattas primarily in the mid-Atlantic region with options to race more competitively outside of the region. ​
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Across both our sweep (1 oar per rower) and sculling (2 oars per rower) programs, we offer beginners' courses. Take a look at our program offerings below to see which one is right for you! Check back for updates on how and when to register.
