Black Kids Go Fast by Joshua Rafferty
Last summer, I had the privilege of attending the Black Student-Athlete Summit in Los Angeles, CA. At the conference, there were over 500 varsity student-athletes across all NCAA divisions. I had the honor of meeting the most talented, hard-working, smart, and kind people with whom I have ever interacted. As I met track runner after track runner, I began to wonder where the rowers were. Joshua Rafferty interviews Black athletes and coaches on their rowing journey, poses the question "How can we get more Black kids in college boats?" and discusses ways that we can diversify our sport at the higher levels.
Survivor Rowing Network: Seats for Survivors Fundraiser
Survivor Rowing Network (SRN) is excited to introduce rowing to more cancer survivors in 2024 and build on its success in 2023, their inaugural year. In honor of Valentine’s Day, SRN is launching their fundraising campaign, Seats for Survivors. JL Racing is proud to open the Seats for Survivors Pre-Order Store this month to support SRN's fundraiser. 10% of net sales from this pre-order store will be donated to the Seats for Survivors fundraiser.
Celebrating the Launch of Xavier Rowing Club
In September 2023, New Orleans Rowing Club and Xavier University of Louisiana partnered to launch the Xavier Rowing Club program, becoming only the second of its kind at a Historically Black College or University. The initiative is currently led by NORC members Elizabeth Manley and Chloé Jobin. Over the past months, more than a dozen enthusiastic Xavier students with no previous rowing experience have learned the fundamentals of the sport on the waters of Bayou St. John and at the NORC indoor rowing facility. The team is eager to continue to train this season with a group of capable and eager novice rowers, and they hope to race in fours or eights in the spring.
Two Passions on a Single: Charlie, the Rowing Chestnut
I have some rather niche passions. The first one might not seem so niche to you, since you are currently reading “The Launch” a rowing blog made by a rowing gear company, but for many, it seems quite odd to have a wake up before 5 am to go sit on a tippy boat, narrower than your butt, to move backwards on a river…My second passion is the Castanea dentata tree (I told you it was rather niche…), the American Chestnut tree!
National Girls and Women in Sports Day 2024
National Girls and Women in Sports Day (February 7, 2024) is a special day all about giving props to women in sports, recognizing their grit, and pushing for equality. As we gear up to celebrate, we sat down with some of our Team JL Ambassadors to learn more about their journey in sports. Join us as we delve into their personal experiences, memorable moments that shaped their athletic journey, and the empowerment they've discovered through participation in sports.
American Heart Month Pre-Order Store
In honor of American Heart Month – a time when the nation spotlights heart disease, the No. 1 killer of Americans – our limited edition apparel is available for pre-order. When we take care of our hearts as part of our self-care, we set an example for others. Join JL Racing and organizations around the country throughout February to bring greater attention to heart disease as a leading cause of death for Americans. Help motivate others to protect their hearts!
Athlete Spotlight: Makayla Malandra
Introducing Makayla, a sophomore on the Purdue Women's Rowing Team! Makayla is currently pursuing a degree in Creative and Professional Writing at Purdue, and she has been rowing since middle school. She loves rowing in a 4x and an 8+, and her favorite seat is 4 seat. Makayla recharges after practice with sunny side up eggs, and while she isn't at the boathouse, she loves spending time with her friends. We sat down with Makayla to delve into the world of collegiate rowing, and learn more about her experience with the sport she has grown to love!
The Boys in the Boat Movie
The Boys in the Boat is a sports drama based on the #1 New York Times bestselling non-fiction book written by Daniel James Brown. The film, directed by George Clooney, is about the 1936 University of Washington rowing team that competed for gold at the Summer Olympics in Berlin. This inspirational true story follows a group of underdogs at the height of the Great Depression as they are thrust into the spotlight and take on elite rivals from around the world. The movie will open in theaters on December 25.
Ultimate Rowers Gift Guide
Welcome to the Ultimate Rowers Gift Guide - your ticket to finding the most unique and functional presents for the rower, coach, or coxswain in your life! We've carefully curated a selection of top-notch gifts that cater to the rowing community. From sleek unisuits that'll have you rowing in style to performance tops that'll keep you cool under pressure, and a variety of accessories, trou, and outerwear, you'll find this year's most-wanted rowing gifts! Whether you're shopping for a friend, family member, coach, teammate, or yourself, we've got you covered. Let the holiday gifting begin!
Holiday Gift Guide: Gifts for Her
The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to celebrate the spirit of giving than by finding the perfect gift for the rower, coxswain, or coach in your life? Whether she's a dedicated athlete, a coach, or someone just starting to explore the sport, nothing beats the excitement of new, top-notch performance gear. We've handpicked a selection of thoughtful and functional gifts and bundles for every budget. Each bundle is meticulously crafted to enhance comfort, style, and performance on the water or erg. Gift individual products or the entire bundle for a holiday gift she is sure to love!
Holiday Gift Guide: Gifts for Him
'Tis the season of giving, and what better way to embrace the festive spirit than by finding the perfect present for the rower, coxswain, or coach in your life? Whether they're a seasoned athlete, your favorite coach, or a novice rower, there's nothing quite like the thrill of brand-new, high-quality performance gear. We've curated a thoughtful selection of gifts and bundles to suit every budget. Shop individual items or complete bundles for a gift that is sure to be loved!
2023 Holiday Gift Guide: Stocking Stuffers
As the holidays approach, finding the perfect stocking stuffers for the rower in your life doesn't have to break the bank. Whether you're shopping for an elite level athlete or simply seeking delightful gifts for the novice rower, our curated list is here to make your festive season merrier. Explore affordable and thoughtful presents, all under $40, that are perfect for the rower, coxswain, or coach in your life. From cozy beanies to comfy seat pads and stylish t-shirts to fun stickers, this guide is a fun selection of budget-friendly ideas that will make this holiday season unforgettable!