Saturday, 6/4 was opening day for rowing in Prospect Park Lake. The count was 100 waivers and $53 in donations. Thanks to all the volunteers who helped to make this day such a success!

On Sunday June 5, Native American paddling groups from Eastern Long Island and upstate New York converged on Pier 40 to greet the Hokulea, a 60-foot-long, twin-hulled Polynesian voyaging canoe that is midway through a multi-year circumnavigation. The fleet, consisting of two small canoes and two larger outrigger canoes, with extra paddlers from the Oneida, Onondaga, and Mohawk nations climbing aboard the Rachel Carson, headed south around 9 am to North Cove, where the Hokulea was moored. After a stirring welcome from indigenous leaders that included songs, dances and the ceremonial presentation of gifts, fleet captains carefully studied their weather apps and timed their departure to avoid an approaching rainstorm, with the usual consequences!

THE VILLAGE COMUNITY BOATHOUSE IS OFFERING FREE PUBLIC ROWING ON PROSPECT PARK LAKE THIS SUMMER.

Sessions run from noon until 4:00 PM on Saturdays from June 4 to August 27.

WHO CAN PARTICIPATE: Community rowing is open to all, although some physical dexterity is required to get in and out of the boats. The focus of the program is recreation in a safe and respectful environment. Each participant must sign a waiver; under 18s need to be escorted by a parent. Life jackets are provided—and must be worn!

WHAT WE ROW: We use a diverse fleet of traditional wooden rowing boats, built by volunteers and similar in shape and appearance to those used in the early days of park rowing.

WHERE WE ARE BASED: Boats are launched from the ramp on Well House Drive in the southwest corner of the lake. Our temporary boathouse–two shipping containers–is located just across from the ramp.

WHY WE DO IT: Rowing is a beautifully simple, healthy, and empowering sport, and the ample waters of the lake are an ideal place to pursue its pleasures. The park is surrounded by a large and diverse population that needs more access to on-water recreation.

HOW WE FUND IT: We are a nonprofit organization entirely run by volunteers. While no commitment is required from those who row with us, our facilities, boats and equipment require regular upkeep and repair. Your donations make our program possible.

MORE QUESTIONS? WANT TO VOLUNTEER? Email us at [email protected], or phone Rob Buchanan at 917 656 7285.