On April 16, the 5th Annual Row for Autism will take place at Hempstead Beach Park. Cosponsored with the Town of North Hempstead, the Friends of Port Rowing will host a U.S. Rowing-sanctioned regatta with competitive races for junior and adult rowers. The day will feature competitive rowing events for adaptive rowers on the autism spectrum. The event is free for spectators and families. All are welcome to cheer on the rowers and enjoy the activities and vendors along the promenade. Racing begins at 8 a.m.
Each year since its inception, Row for Autism donates a portion of the proceeds to an autism advocacy program with local ties. The remaining proceeds support Port Rowing’s Adaptive Program.
Friends of Port Rowing began its adaptive rowing program in 2012 with the goals of fostering the love of the sport of rowing and providing teens with autism the benefits of rowing both socially and physically. The program requires specialized training boats and equipment and a dedicated, professional staff to provide safety and coaching. The adaptive program pairs a special needs teenager with a typical peer mentor. Team building, physical training, social interaction and synchronizing on the land and on the water creates a unique experience for all the participants.
Participation in the Row for Autism is open for rowing teams in and around New York State. Team registration is through Regatta Central at www.regattacentral.com.
The Friends of Port Rowing is a nonprofit organization that supports the teams, programs and facilities of Port Rowing. Port Rowing
provides competitive rowing teams and training programs for middle school and high school students of all levels. Over the past five years, team members have competed and won on local, state and national levels. Programming for adults include novice and master level training and
team competitions. For more information go to www.portrowing.org.
