Making Waves in Lowestoft: East Anglia Youth Rowing Launches Exciting Initiatives
East Anglia Youth Rowing (EAYR) is bringing exciting new opportunities to young people across the region, combining sport, personal development, and environmental awareness to create lasting impact. With a mission to make rowing accessible and inclusive, EAYR is breaking barriers and inspiring the next generation of rowers while promoting physical and mental wellbeing.
Lowestoft Schools Pilot Rowing Project
Two Lowestoft schools, Ormiston Denes and East Point Academy, are at the forefront of EAYR’s new pilot programme aimed at introducing Year 8 students to rowing. Each school has been equipped with four state-of-the-art rowing machines, generously donated by British Rowing. These machines will be used during curriculum time and for after-school clubs, giving students a chance to explore the sport.
Ormiston Denes students already had a taste of rowing, both indoors and on water, with a taster session at Lowestoft Rowing Club on Oulton Broad before the summer holidays. Plans are underway to provide regular water-based sessions for targeted groups in the summer term, along with summer rowing camps for others.
This initiative not only promotes teamwork, resilience, and confidence but also aims to support Lowestoft Rowing Club in establishing a Junior Rowing programme. By upskilling local coaches and volunteers, the project hopes to create a sustainable future for rowing in the community. If successful, the programme will expand to include two additional high schools in the Lowestoft area over the next two years.
British Rowing Lowestoft Coastal Sculling Academy
In March 2024, Lowestoft Rowing Club became the proud home of the Lowestoft Coastal Sculling Academy (LCSA), accredited by British Rowing. The academy is already making waves, offering young people a pathway to the GB and Olympic talent development programmes, with eyes set on future Olympic Games in Los Angeles and beyond.
The academy hosted its first Last Light Beach Sprint Regatta on South Beach in October, attracting competitors from across East Anglia and beyond. The event showcased young talent, including EAYR rowing leaders who both raced and volunteered. Mark your calendars for next year’s regatta on Sunday, 5th October, and the Beach Sprint Triathlon on Sunday, 6th April—a must-see local event!
British Rowing has also provided six single coastal sculling boats, enabling both the academy and EAYR schools to offer beach sprint and coastal rowing experiences. This collaboration fast-tracks promising young rowers identified through school programmes, giving them the chance to take their passion for rowing to new heights.
Building Cultural and Community Connections
EAYR is not just about rowing; it’s about creating opportunities for young people to discover their potential while building connections with their local cultural and environmental heritage. By partnering with schools and communities, EAYR is shaping a brighter future for Lowestoft, fostering a love of rowing that will last a lifetime.
Whether you’re a parent, student, or community member, there’s never been a better time to get involved. Follow EAYR’s journey as they continue to empower the youth of East Anglia, one stroke at a time.
For more information about these initiatives or to get involved, visit