ABOUT US
About Us
The Muskoka Rowing Club is a non-profit sports organization that was founded in 1988 by a group of local teachers with an initial focus on the development of a high school rowing program. Over the past 30 years, the club has evolved with the bulk of the current membership being classified as adult recreational rowers, though there are youth and student programs available.
The club is comprised of a wide cross section of members who range in age from teenagers to older adults. Likewise, there are diverse rowing abilities ranging from true beginners to those who compete at an elite level. May to late October, MRC members have the ability to hone their skills on the scenic Muskoka River, take part in various club social events, and participate in one of the fastest growing recreational activities.
The club is located in downtown Bracebridge at Kelvin Grove Park. The boathouse and parking are located on the south side of Ecclestone Drive and our docks are situated on the shore of the Muskoka River just down from the falls.
Rowing uses all major muscle groups to provide a low impact full body workout, making it a lifelong sport. Enjoyment and physical fitness are emphasized in a supportive environment within MRC. The club offers a wide variety in their fleet of boats and all members have the opportunity to be part of a crew and/or row as an individual in a single boat. MRC allows for both individual and team development, and those who wish to row more competitively have the opportunity to compete at regattas and races on a wider geographic basis under the Muskoka Rowing Club banner. Several students have gone on to compete at the university level, and return each summer to share their new found knowledge.
The Muskoka Rowing Club is recognized by, and is a member in good standing of, the Ontario Rowing Association and Rowing Canada Aviron.
Find out more about our story here!
Mission
Our mission at Muskoka Rowing Club is to cultivate the joy of rowing within our community.
Vision
Our vision is to be a thriving hub where rowers find joy, camaraderie, and continuous growth in rowing.
Values
Collaboration
We build positive relationships in our club and within our community.
Integrity
We are transparent, honest, and accountable for all of our actions.
Respect
We cherish a community where mutual respect is central to our interactions. Respect extends to the treatment of our equipment and our facility.
Excellence
We strive to provide quality programming for club members.
Board of Directors
The Board of Directors at Muskoka Rowing Club provides leadership, oversight, and strategic direction to ensure we fulfill our mission of cultivating the joy of rowing within our community. As a volunteer-led governing body, the board is responsible for setting policies, managing finances, ensuring legal compliance, and supporting the long-term success of our club. Guided by our values of Collaboration, Integrity, Respect, and Excellence, we work to create a thriving hub where rowers of all levels find joy, camaraderie, and continuous growth in the sport. The board is committed to fostering a welcoming, inclusive environment, engaging with members and stakeholders, and securing the resources needed to enhance our programming and facilities.
President
Vienna Scholten
The President serves as the leader and key representative of the rowing club, providing strategic direction and operational oversight. They work collaboratively with the board to establish both long-term and short-term goals, ensuring alignment with the club’s mission, vision, and values. The President presides over all meetings, represents the club in interactions with external organizations such as Rowing Canada Aviron (RCA) and Row Ontario, and acts as a spokesperson for the organization. They oversee committees, monitor compliance with policies and regulations, and maintain communication with members and stakeholders to support the club’s success and growth.
Treasurer
Jake Morrice
The Treasurer oversees the financial health of the rowing club by managing budgeting, financial reporting, and compliance with fiscal policies. They work closely with the board to ensure transparency, accuracy, and alignment with the club’s financial goals. The Treasurer is responsible for presenting budgets and safeguarding the organization’s assets.
Secretary
Rhiannon Crichton
The Secretary acts as the administrative backbone of the board, ensuring proper documentation, record-keeping, and communication. They prepare and distribute meeting agendas, record minutes, and maintain the club’s bylaws, policies, and official records. The Secretary serves as a custodian of essential documents and works closely with the board to facilitate effective governance.
Director
Bert Bongers
Directors serve as active participants in the governance and strategic planning of the rowing club. They act as ambassadors for the organization, promoting its mission and values, building relationships within the community, and supporting fundraising and recruitment initiatives. Directors work collectively with the board to ensure the club's operational and financial success.
Director
David Kaye
Directors serve as active participants in the governance and strategic planning of the rowing club. They act as ambassadors for the organization, promoting its mission and values, building relationships within the community, and supporting fundraising and recruitment initiatives. Directors work collectively with the board to ensure the club's operational and financial success.
Director
Sara Kerrigan
Directors serve as active participants in the governance and strategic planning of the rowing club. They act as ambassadors for the organization, promoting its mission and values, building relationships within the community, and supporting fundraising and recruitment initiatives. Directors work collectively with the board to ensure the club's operational and financial success.
Director
Dyan MacDonald
Directors serve as active participants in the governance and strategic planning of the rowing club. They act as ambassadors for the organization, promoting its mission and values, building relationships within the community, and supporting fundraising and recruitment initiatives. Directors work collectively with the board to ensure the club's operational and financial success.