We are so excited to partner with Row New York for their Heroes Row the Harlem event on June 1st. It's going to be a great way to kick off the paddling sports schedule for OutdoorFest!

NYPD and FDNY Get On The Water with Row New York!

This week Row New York welcomed New York City police officers and firefighters to the Peter Jay Sharp Boathouse to begin their training for the June 1 Heroes Row the Harlem race. Each team met their coach, got a tour of the boathouse, and learned the basics of rowing.

They started on the ergometer, or indoor rowing machine. Some participants were surprised to learn how much of a full-body workout rowing is.

One rower said he’s “been erging for years at the gym and had no idea I had such bad form. After just one practice I’ve completely changed my posture and feel like I’ve gotten a better workout.”

The firefighters were able to take their new knowledge onto the water. Not bad for a first day!

We couldn’t be more excited to watch our FDNY and NYPD heroes progress in the next few weeks, culminating in their race on the Harlem River. In addition to on-water and on-land rowing lessons at Heroes Row the Harlem, there will be games for kids, tours of the boathouse, and a picnic. The event is open to the community and is a partner of OutdoorFest2014.

Go Row New York and go row, New York!