A rowing event in Henley designed for disabled participants has been given £1,000 in financial support by the Regattas Freemasons Lodge and the Love Rowing charity. This funding helps prepare for the upcoming Regatta for the Disabled, which is set to take place on 12 September. The support ensures more opportunities for disabled and disadvantaged people to enjoy rowing activities.
The Regattas Freemasons Lodge has played a major role in fundraising for this initiative. This money is crucial for supporting adaptive rowing programs.
The Lodge contributed to Love Rowing, a charitable organization focused on helping disabled and disadvantaged individuals get involved in rowing. Lucy Bowley, who chairs the Regatta for the Disabled, expressed gratitude toward the Lodge and Love Rowing, especially because earlier in the year the event faced a shortfall in grant money. She added that the regatta looks forward to showcasing adaptive rowing crews from Marlow Rowing Club once more.
Gavin Delf, who leads the foundation at Love Rowing, highlighted how the regatta matches their charity’s values. He noted that enabling people of all abilities to experience the joys of boating is a shared goal. Love Rowing is focused on making rowing accessible and inclusive, and they plan to expand adaptive rowing opportunities for disabled people throughout Oxfordshire.
Stuart Rahman-Greasley, speaking for the Regattas Lodge Events Team, emphasized the importance of the event to the Lodge. They aim to build partnerships with local groups to support rowing for disabled and disadvantaged individuals. Rahman-Greasley mentioned that Lodge members are also expected to help at the event and that more fundraising plans are in the works, including another Leander dinner on 13 November.