Foundation and Initial Vision
East Anglia Youth Rowing began as an outreach project of City of Cambridge Rowing Club (CCRC), with the goal of introducing young people in underrepresented communities to the sport of rowing. Initially conceived as a local initiative, the project’s ambition grew upon the recommendation of early funders, encouraging EAYR to partner with multiple schools and rowing clubs across the region.
Early Partnerships
In its first year, EAYR forged crucial relationships with local schools, clubs, and community organisations. These partnerships laid the foundation for its pilot programmes, providing access to the necessary rowing equipment and facilities through local clubs. This model allowed EAYR to begin offering its programmes with minimal capital outlay.
Pilot Programmes
EAYR launched its first rowing pilot programmes in a small number of schools. These sessions introduced students to the sport, focusing on rowing fundamentals and team-building exercises. Feedback from these pilots helped refine the programme’s design and allowed EAYR to understand the unique needs of each school.
EAYR Today
Since 2023, East Anglia Youth Rowing has delivered programs across Cambridgeshire, Norfolk, and Suffolk. Our activities span diverse locations, from established hubs in Cambridge and Norwich, to new initiatives like our Lowestoft project, launched in summer 2024. By combining water and indoor rowing opportunities, we reached students from urban, rural, and coastal communities, ensuring access to the sport for young people from a wide range of backgrounds, including those in areas of high deprivation.