The NAC Middle School team made waves in their very first race of the season on the 25th, and the excitement was electric! Boats lined up at the starting line, rowers gripping oars tightly, hearts racing with anticipation. Families cheered from the shore, catching their first glimpse of what rowing is all about. It was a perfect opportunity to connect with this new rowing community and celebrate the start of the season together.
Racing at this stage is about more than winning. It’s about learning to work as a team, keeping technique sharp under pressure, and discovering what it feels like to row in sync with others. Experiencing this early in the season helps them bond as a team, develop confidence, and build the foundation for future races. Each athlete got a firsthand lesson in focus, perseverance, and the power of supporting one another through a shared challenge.
First races are always full of energy, lessons, and memories that stay with rowers long after the finish line. For our middle school team, this race marks the beginning of a season of growth, fun, and teamwork – both on and off the water.
Coach Haley MacKay