The Hawkeye Community Rowing Program is designed to teach and promote the sport of rowing both on campus and in the Iowa City area. Based at the P. Sue Beckwith Boathouse, the program provides opportunities for rowing on the Iowa River. We believe that rowing offers a unique chance for personal growth through teamwork and physical fitness. Our programs cater to every skill level and are available for participants aged 12 and up.
Learn to Row
Learn to row offerings provide an introductory experience that will teach you the basic concept of rowing on land and in boats on the river.
National Learn to Row Day
National Learn to Row Day is June 7. Join us for a morning learn-to-row that will give you a quick glimpse into the sport of rowing. You will learn the rowing stroke on land and then move to boats on the water.
All fitness and athletic backgrounds are welcome. Ages 18+. Items to wear and bring for participation: weather-appropriate apparel, hat, sunglasses, water bottle and sunscreen. Baggy clothing is discouraged as it may get caught in the equipment.
Date: Saturday, June 7
Time: 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Location: P. Sue Beckwith Boathouse
Fee: $75
Registration opens May 2.
There are no refunds 3 days prior to the event.
Junior Summer Learn to Row Camps
Rowing is a dynamic sport that everyone can enjoy. This camp will teach the basics of rowing, starting on land and then moving into the boats on the river. Participants will learn rowing terminology, boat handling, and how to move a boat on the Iowa River!
Items to wear and bring for participation: weather-appropriate apparel, hat, sunglasses, water bottle and sunscreen. Baggy clothing is discouraged as it may get caught in the equipment.
Required: Participants must be at least 12 years old, 5’0 tall and able to lift 25lbs over their head.
- Session 1
- Dates: July 14-17
- Time: 9-11am
- Session 2
- Dates: August 4-7
- Time: 9-11am
- Session 3
- Dates: August 11-14
- Time: 9-11am
Juniors Sneak Peak Week
Anyone in middle or high school, ages 12-18, is welcome to learn more about the sport of Rowing!
Join our team at their scheduled winter practice times to see if our Junior Rowing program is a fit for you. After the Sneak Peek Week, you are welcome to join the Junior’s rowing team for the remainder of the indoor season.
November 30-December 4th, 2026
Monday – Wednesday | 4:30-6 pm
Thursday | 3:30-5 pm
Friday | 6-7:30 am
Registration coming Fall 2025.
Practices are primarily held in the Indoor Rowing Room at the University of Iowa Field House, and occasionally in the Indoor Tank Room at the P. Sue Beckwith Boathouse.
Rowing Programs
Novice Rowing
The novice rowing program serves as a bridge between introductory rowing and more advanced levels, whether recreational or advanced. Participants will deepen their understanding of the sport, focusing on rowing technique (both sweep and sculling), boat dynamics, and teamwork. To fully benefit from the program, consistent attendance throughout the series is strongly encouraged.
Program Requirements: Prior learn to row or private lesson is highly encouraged.
Recreational Rowing
The recreational rowing program offers a fun and engaging way to experience the sport, whether you are a beginner or looking to refine your skills. Focused on improving technique, endurance, and teamwork, this program provides a relaxed yet structured environment on the water. Limited sessions are offered twice per week depending on the season.
Program Requirements: Novice rowing series or previous rowing experience is required to join this program.
Advanced Rowing
The advanced rowing program is for experienced adult rowers who have permission from the head coach to advance from the novice and/or the recreational rowing program. These coached sessions focus on effective technique and specific training to achieve a higher level of rowing skills. Multiple sessions are offered five days per week in the mornings.
Program Requirements: Novice rowing series or previous rowing experience is required to join this program.
Junior Programs
The juniors program offers young athletes the opportunity to develop physical strength, teamwork, and discipline while mastering the art of rowing. Open to students in grades 8-12 of all skill levels, our program balances both competitive and recreational rowing, helping each athlete grow in technique, fitness, and confidence. Led by experienced coaches, our juniors not only learn the fundamentals of rowing but also build lasting friendships and a strong sense of community.
Private Lessons
We offer private lessons for individuals and small groups. We offer an introduction to rowing for new participants, as well as advanced coaching for experienced rowers. Private lessons are one hour in length for indoors, and two hours in length on the water.
Contact for more information or to register.
Help us Grow
Giving to the Hawkeye Community Rowing program makes a difference in the lives of our participants and helps us grow and improve our programs and facilities.
Learn more about our rowing program!
Contact us
Danelle Stipes
