The backwaters of Kerala bordered by coconut groves or the lakes of a hill station swathed in mist-two locales that we immediately visualize when asked about rowing. The serene and picturesque ambiance of the Madras boat club seldom comes into the picture.

In spite of this, it cannot be disputed that the Madras Boat Club is one of the best equipped rowing clubs in the country today. Founded in 1867, its one of the oldest rowing centers in India. It�s believed that a few English sailors exercised the idea of instituting the rowing facility in the backwaters of Ennore. The club was shifted to the banks of the Adyar River in 1892, where it stands today. The total number of rowing members, exclusive of the student members, surpasses 300.

An attractive feature of the club is that apart from rowing it has a number of facilities like the gymnasium, conference hall and dining room, which has made it almost a second home to its members. Rowing is the ultimate way to unwind. Unfortunately, it hasn�t been receiving the attention it deserves due to lack of publicity. However, the club is now taking effective steps to step up the level of publicity and awareness about this sport.

The club is especially focusing on drawing the attention of the student community. They�ve started organizing more of school and college regattas keeping this motive in mind. Students need to pay a monthly subscription fee of Rs.50 to become a member of the club. They are free to use the boats and novices are trained free of cost by professionals in the club.

Rowing, rather than just a hobby could even provide a gateway to a future in the Armed Forces. However, one must remember that rowing is considered to be one of the toughest sports next to swimming when it comes to stamina and energy. Rowing aficionados must be ready to cope with the pressure of such a demanding sport.

SOWJANYA.S