Fundraising Goal: Men's 8+, Light Men's 2x
Providing transformational experiences
The success of the Vikes men's rowing program dates back to 1965 when undergraduate student John Neville had the audacity to approach the Elworthys to move their donation for university entry gates to fund a fledgling rowing program under the guidance of Olympian Lorne Loomer. By saying yes to this request, the Elworthys created untold opportunities for young men and women to internalize the traditions of discipline and excellence deeply embedded in this sport's fabric. Since then, generous donations from parents, alumni and supporters have helped create a boathouse and fleet that supports the annual campaign to Brown Cup, Canadian Henley and Canadian University Championships while allowing aspiring athletes to carry on representing their province and country at national and international events.
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This year, our campaign focuses on raising $95,000 to purchase a heavy men's eight (68k) and light men's double (27k) critical to replace aging equipment.
The christening of the men's eight will honour UVic Hall of Famer and former coach Al Morrow, who coached at UVic from 1978-90, winning two national championships and going on to coach for Rowing Canada Aviron, helping athletes win 25 different medals in international events.
We already have a donor committed to buying one seat in the eight, and they have challenged others to match their $7500 donation. We also have a donor that will match a separate $5000 gift that they have pledged towards the eight.
The christening of the light men's double comes at the request of friends and support from the family. It will honour Chris Gulka, a lightweight rower who rowed for the Vikes and tragically passed in a climbing accident as he pursued this new sport.
Once you donate online, a tax receipt will come directly to your inbox, and your donation will go directly to support our Vikes men's rowing program and athletes. Thank you again for your support of our Vikes men's rowing program.
If you have any questions, please contact Aalbert Van Schothorst, head coach men's rowing, at vikesmrow@uvic.ca or 250-418-1560. If you would like to make a gift in USD and receive a tax receipt for USD, please use this link: extrweb.uvic.ca/donation-forms/united-states.
How will your gift be used?
The $95,000 will be used directly to purchase the Al Morrow eight and Chris Gulka light men’s double boats listed above.
Why support the Vikes men’s rowing program?
The rowing program strives for excellence on and off the water. It is important to ensure the student-athlete experience propels them upward to their individual and unique calling after university. By contributing to our goal, donors are supporting the student-athlete experience and displaying generosity to our players, in the hope they will share that same generosity in their lives.
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