Contact:
Ed Levin
Publicity Director
610-246-5902
levins51@verizon.net
The indescribable, life altering moment of the announcement of a diagnosis of cancer is indelibly etched in the mind of so many. Shock, doubt, despair, fear and grief perch over family, friends, and community.
Some, fortified with prayer, belief in a cure, exceptional care, support by everyone surrounding them survive, an odyssey of tragedy to triumph.
Afterwards, their bond with others who have survived is remarkable.
The Dad Vail Regatta Organizing Committee (DVROC) is very excited about partnering with the Survivor Rowing Network, a community of rowers committed to introducing rowing to more cancer survivors.
On Saturday May 10, between the morning and afternoon sessions of the 86th annual Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta, four boats will unite for the second annual “Survivor Row.” This special event will feature one 8+ (eight rowers with coxswain) and three quads (four rowers without coxswain) highlighting the strength, spirit, and resilience of cancer survivors through the power of rowing.
This exhibition aims to inspire Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta competitors and spectators alike, showcasing a growing movement within the sport – Survivor Rowing.
The Survivor Rowing Network launched in 2023 with a clear and powerful mission; to provide access for cancer patients and survivors to find strength, joy, confidence and community through rowing. In just two years, SRN has grown rapidly. The network now supports 32 member programs and individuals in five countries serving cancer survivors aged 30 to 80. Most participants had never rowed prior to their diagnosis, but now thrive as part of a vibrant, empowering community-helping to establish a new category in rowing – The Survivor Row.
This weekend, SRN brings 20 survivor rowers to the Cooper River representing seven clubs from Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Georgia, Washington D.C and Philadelphia.
“The Survivor Rowing Network is thrilled to return to the Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta for our second Survivor Row”, said Beth Kohl, Rowing Cares President/ Survivor Rowing Network Founder. “Last year our survivors were warmly welcomed and had a terrific experience. This event provides an incredible opportunity to showcase the healing power of rowing for cancer survivors to the broad collegiate community of rowers, coaches and supporters.”
“The Dad Vail Regatta Organizing Committee is excited to partner with survivor cancer rowing and to be able to showcase the great work the organization is doing and the amazing cancer survivors who have turned to rowing as an outlet.”
SRN’s goal is to create more opportunities for survivors to row – whether on the water or on indoor rowing machines – as part of their recovery and rehabilitation. Scientific research continues to show the crucial role of exercise in reducing the risk of recurrence and rowing offers a mix of physical challenge, teamwork and mental restoration.
Interested rowing programs are encouraged to connect with SRN. The network is actively collaborating with collegiate and community boathouses to welcome survivors- especially during summer and school breaks-and offers full support to new programs.
To learn more about SRN, please stop by the tent
The 86th Annual Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta, will be staged on the Cooper River, in Pennsauken Township, New Jersey on Friday, May 9, and Saturday, May 10.
-Beth Kohl, Rowing Cares President/ Survivor Rowing Network Founder contributed to the release.
