Learn to Row Stratford Observer

Published 7 June 2023


Straford-upon-Avon Boat Club hosted the first ever WheelPower event to encourage wheelchair users to take part in the sport of rowing.

WheelPower has been providing opportunities for people with physical impairments to take part in sport for nearly 75 year and on June 1 2023 WheelPower joined forces with the Stratford Boat Club team to host a free and inclusive event that was enjoyed by all who attended

Stratford’s head adaptive coach, Mark Dewdney, said: “The WheelPower event was a great success and we were so pleased that the club’s adaptive section was able to host the very first national event to encourage disabled people into the sport of rowing. It was a pleasure to have WheelPower at Stratford-Upon-Avon Boat Club: we look forward to welcoming you back very soon!.”

Ella Willot, WheelPower Partnership Development Manger said: “The Learn to Row with WheelPower & Stratford Upon Avon Boat Club (SUABC) on the 1st June was a brilliant day to kick-start our summer programme of activities, which later in the season includes adaptive skiing and handcycling. We want to give our sincere thanks to everyone who participated in the Learn to Row and those working very hard behind the scenes to make the day such a success. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all the coaches, volunteers, and adaptive squad members of SUABC, whose enthusiasm and passion for the sport really made for a special event. To all the participants – we hope to hear about your continued journeys in rowing, or in other adaptive sports and thank you again for coming along and being brilliant participants!”

Boat Club president, Paul Stanton, added: “We were also honoured to have Stratford-upon-Avon Deputy Mayor, Coun Jason Fojtik attend the event. The interest, support and encouragement that Jason and Stratford-upon-Avon Town Council give to sport in the Stratford and wider area is essential for community cohesion and wellbeing.”

Full Story  (Stratford Observer)

learn to row with wheelpower

Participant Quotes

“Thanks to all the people involved with today, I loved it.” (Les)

“Thanks to everyone involved. I had a brilliant morning.” (Miranda)