Polar pull rowing competition coming to Orillia for first time

Members of Orillia's Rowing Club practice at the Orillia Recreation Centre on Mon. Jan. 22, 2024 (CTV News/Chris Garry).

It may be frigid temperatures, but that's not stopping some passionate athletes from training for a popular summer sport.

Throughout the winter months, the Orillia Recreation Centre becomes the home base for the city's rowing club. To stay at the top of their game, club members use the ergometers at the rec centre once temperatures outside plummet.

"Well, the rowing machine is the nearest to rowing on the water, and the rowing machine enables you to train most parts of your body," said club coach Anne Hodkin. "It's very easy on your joints, but it really does help you improve your VO2 max and your overall performance of your muscles."

The club is currently preparing for its first-ever Polar Pull Indoor Regata. Hoping to turn it into an annual event, Hodkin says it is open to everyone who wants to give the sport a chance.

Hodkin says rowing competitions happen more frequently in cities in southwestern Ontario.

"We decided to go with the polar pull event because it's a bit arctic at the moment in the temperature, so it's appropriate I feel," she said with a laugh.

There will be races between 500 and 2000 meters, with participants matched based on their skill level or age. The club has participants from young kids to senior citizens in their 80s.

"The goal is under competition situations that they get a PB, which is a personal best," Hodkin said. "Some of these kids have been training really hard, so I think they will do really well."

The regatta will be held on Sat. Feb. 3 at Orillia's Rotary Place.