“Can Do Crew” Adaptive Rowing
In rowing,
we adapt the equipment --
not the sport--
so that anyone,
regardless of
any functional limitation,
can enjoy the water.
Since 1991, Rio Salado Rowing Club (Rio) has worked to establish the sport of rowing in the Arizona desert. In 2010, we began partnering with community organizations to establish “Can Do Crew”, an adaptive rowing program which enables people with disabilities to enjoy the health, fitness, and social benefits of recreational and competitive, rowing.
We lead weekly coached adaptive workouts using indoor rowing machines (ergometers, or "ergs"), and conduct on-water rowing sessions at Tempe Town Lake. (Click HERE for our current “Can Do Crew” rowing schedule.)
We have also hosted adaptive rowing clinics led by U.S. Paralympic Team rowers and coaches. Additionally, our “Can Do Crew” adaptive athletes have won medals at local, national, and international adaptive rowing competitions, like the Bayada Regatta and C.R.A.S.H.-B. indoor rowing championship. In 2012, we earned our designation as a U.S. Paralympic Sport Club to foster the participation of people with disabilities in sports and physical activity.
“Can Do Crew” adaptive rowing is an all-volunteer effort, with many individuals contributing their time, talents, and donations to realize our vision of rowing for all. (If you're interested in volunteering, click on the "Get Involved" tab, at the top of the page.) Numerous community organizations and rowing programs have also contributed their invaluable support, resources, and guidance, as we continue to build our adaptive program.
Many thanks to:
- Statewide Independent Living Council (SILC)
- AZ Bridge to Independent Living (ABIL)
- Virginia G. Piper Sports & Fitness Center for Persons with Disabilities (SpoFit)
- City of Tempe
- Foundation for Blind Children
- Bayada Home Health Care
- AZ Technology Access Program (AzTAP)
- Phoenix Banner Wheelchair Suns basketball team
- AZ Spinal Cord Injury Association
- AZ Disabled Sports
- Tempe Junior Crew
- Xavier Prep Crew
- Brophy College Preparatory Rowing Team
Adaptive rowing programs, athletes and coaches throughout the country!
Our Supporters:
- Concept 2
- AZ Sports & Tourism Authority
- St. Luke’s Health Initiatives
- Private donors
For general info about adaptive rowing, see these links:
If you'd like to get involved with our Can Do Crew, please contact us.