Open Sculling 2012 Preview

Katie Stainken at the 2011 National Selection Regatta

After a successful 2011, it looks like our Open Sculling Program is getting some new blood!  Open Sculler Katie Stainken contributes the following post.

To learn more about Potomac Boat Club’s Open Sculling Program and Katie, please visit The Open Sculling Program page at http://www.potomacstar.com/racing-programs/test/.  And check back soon for new teammate bios!

A big PBC WELCOME to our new Open Scullers and coaches!

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Since the last update from the Open Scullers, quite a few exciting changes have taken place. The biggest change is in the roster:  we now have four women and eleven men, who make for a crowded carpet at 6am when we do our daily core routine!

On the men’s side, Open Sculling Program veterans Willy Cowles, Taylor Frank, Sean Gorman, Joe Ledvina, and Michael Malone are joined by Greg Charte, Patrick Lacey, Matt Miller, Carl Thunman, Steve Whelpley, and Nate Kelly. For the women, Stef Kozuscek, Katie Stainken, and Morgan Wimberley are joined by Emily Carney.  Lucky for us though, Coach Reilly has recruited two new coaches to assist with the program and keep us in line: Jim O’Connor and Heather Barney.  Thanks to Jim and Heather for volunteering their time!

Looking back at Fall the Open Scullers participated in the Head of the Potomac, Head of the Occoquan, Head of the Charles, and the Fall Speed Order. All of these races offered great racing experience for the team as we geared up for winter training and the 2012 year.  We capped off the fall with a new challenge … the first annual PBC Triathlon, which consisted of a 10k erg, bridge loop run, and a quick row out to Roosevelt bridge and back.  Next up, we have a run test, 30 minute test, 6k test, and the annual erg marathon on December 31^st. Hopefully the weather will remain mild, or at least above freezing, and we will be able to continue to row through December and into January. With the 4-oar rule in effect and our large team roster, 2x and 4x will have to be the boats of choice.

It’s not all work with the Open Scullers, though!  We’re looking forward to decorating the ballroom and to hosting the PBC Christmas party on December 11, and then to our Rising Stars dinner in January, which was so successful last year thanks to you.  Some members of the team are also California Dreamin’, and will be heading out to train the winter months away in Long Beach, California, after the start of the new year.

As always, thanks so much for your support, PBC!  Stay tuned for more information on what your Open Sculling Program is up to and news of our upcoming events!