The camp at Shawnigan Lake was a very positive experience for all of those involved. The winter camp was the best rowing experience that I have had thus far. It was very inspirational, and I left with even more determination to work harder and go faster. Everything was well organized, and the amount of rowing done was suitable to the time of year. As a result, no injuries occurred and the athletes left the camp feeling stronger and having improved their boat-moving abilities. Also, it was better that the camp this year was focused on technical improvements rather than just seat racing, as many athletes (especially those not from B.C.) had not been in a boat for a few months.

The chance to row in 4-s was also good, as I (and probably many other athletes) had never spent much or any time at all in this type of boat. Since the 4- is a very technical boat to row, the athletes’ skills increased as a result. Also, seeing the senior national team athletes on Tuesday was good as we were able to observe how the pros operate. On the second last day of camp the men were given an incredible opportunity to row an eight with coxswain Brian Price. After just two rows with him everyone could feel the improvement in boat speed, and quality strokes. Having him come to the camp in subsequent years would be very beneficial to the up and coming junior athletes. The last day being a 1500m time trial was a good way to cap off a great week. By doing the time trial the athletes could see how they potentially stacked up against some of their competition within Canada, as well as to make the athletes work even harder when they got back home. By increasing the amount of rowing done throughout the week, injuries were prevented, and everyone left the camp with an increased sense of desire. Going to the gym to play some games at night was a good idea too, so as to keep the athletes minds fresh.

The schedule of the camp was well organized. The food and hospitality of Shawnigan Lake School was very good, and the Lecky House was awesome! All the facilities that could possibly have been needed were there. There was a laundry facility, the Shaw centre for presentations, an amazing dining hall, and an extraordinary boathouse filled with equipment that was second to none. The coaching and Rowing Canada staff were great as well, and it was overwhelming (in a good way) to have so much knowledge of the sport surrounding the athletes. Mike Spracklen's presentation, and Al Morrow's and Adam Parfitt's discussions were very informative too.

Overall, the camp was a very positive experience, and if I were a junior again next year I would be looking forward to it. Having an opportunity like this is great because you can learn so much from both the coaches and the other athletes. On a personal level, this was the best rowing experience that I have had so far. My knowledge of the sport increased, I made new friends, and I feel that I am an improved rower after leaving the camp. Although I have no other rowing experience to compare the camp with; if I were to run it next year, I would not change a thing.

Report by Sarah Powell

From March 11th-18th, 20 junior athletes from across Canada came together for this year’s Junior National Training Camp, held at Shawnigan Lake School, BC. As always, the Shawnigan Lake facilities were first class. From excellent accommodation, to superb meals, the group was provided with all the comforts of home.

Though a standard event for the local rowers, many from the eastern provinces were excited with their first ‘on water’ practice of the year. This said, during the week, we faced a variety of different weather conditions from sun to snow, but mostly rain. Weather permitting we were on the water for two practices a day. During the camp the women were coached by Al Morrow, Women’s Development Coach, and Gavin McKay, Junior National Team Leader, both providing great technical coaching. Steve Taylor from Winnipeg also provided the women with video footage, and critiquing of our rowing, another great learning opportunity.

The group had the opportunity to attend a seminar from Mike Spracklen, Men’s National Team coach. Accompanied with a great visual presentation, this talk covered various aspects of the rowing stroke, allowing an incite in to his coaching style, and sparking reflection on this information during the remainder of our practices. Adam Parfitt and Gavin McKay also spoke, sharing some of their experiences in Beijing and giving the athletes an idea of what to expect if selected to this year's Junior National Team.

In the final days of our camp, the women traveled to Elk Lake to train with the University of Victoria Vikes rowing team, coached by Rick Crawley. During our first practice of the day, we were given the opportunity to do pieces along side the UVic boats. For our second practice, athletes from both groups combined to form an integrated eight. The rest of our day was spent in Victoria, feeding seals, going out for lunch, and exploring downtown.

When the 18th came, few wanted to return home. Tempted by the lack of ice, great food, awesome people, and the promise of more Alaskan football many tried to permanently live at Shawnigan, but to no avail. The week proved to be an awesome learning experience, and also a lot of fun. Thanks to everyone who made this such a positive experience!