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By Emma Buford

Tuesday, June 18, 2013 proved to be an exciting and busy day at the Meadow Lake Queens Boathouse in Flushing Meadows Corona Park. The sun was shining and the water was perfect for Row New York’s School-day Adaptive Culminating Event. The School-day Adaptive Rowing Program provides 10 weeks of land-based and on-water rowing activities to middle school students with disabilities. Row New York has branched out to middle school girls of District 75 as a part of this program. These schools include 811Q, 177Q, 811K, 721Q, 721M, 53K, and 721K.

One hundred girls make their way to the Flushing Boathouse during the day instead of attending gym class at their respective schools from Monday through Thursday in both the Spring and Fall. Girls who have a passion for rowing and a drive to row fast can become part of an all-star program that meets on Fridays during their gym period as well.

This event was a major success. All of the girls were thrilled to get on the water and show their strength and passion for rowing. One student even said, “Guys! This is the best day of my life because we are outside and it’s hot and I’m having so much fun!” As students entered the boathouse, everyone was greeted with smiling faces and cheers of excitement. The barge races soon began as the students eagerly got life jackets and made their way down the dock towards the starting line. This event included barge races, erg races, and presentations of posters and various prizes.

Teachers were also present at this event to assist the coaches and chaperone transportation. One teacher stated that, “rowing gives the students a tremendous sense of accomplishment. They know rowing isn’t easy and they are doing it. They love coming to the boathouse. They are excited about it and look forward to it.” Another teacher said that he noticed behavioral changes amongst the kids while they were at the boathouse. These changes then carried over and changed their behavior at school. Students were growing more responsive in the mornings and generally seemed happier.

Regardless of a victory or a loss, all of the children at this event spread positive energy and optimism to all they came in contact with. During the award ceremony, the winners were rewarded with medals. Before each team was announced, shrill screams and cheers echoed through the boathouse. The sheer enthusiasm present at this event was awe-inspiring and left the students ready to take on challenges regarding rowing and academics.

Thank you to Stephanie Frank, Adam Berger, and Brent Basso for their amazing coaching, guidance, and leadership during this program. In addition, a huge thank you to the teachers who assist the students and provide tremendous support as well.

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