Issue 105 - February 1998

Roll up for a rowing future

Strategic Leisure Ltd is developing a Facilities Strategy for the Amateur Rowing Association, with financial assistance from the English Sports Council. The six-month study began in January, and there will be opportunity for everyone in rowing to make their views known. A facilities strategy is essential if rowing, one of only eight sports to be given the opportunity, is to take full advantage of future Lottery funding.

The ARA has published several plans for the development of sport; including the Forward Plan, regional plans, the World Class Performance Plan, Project Oarsome for recruiting youngsters from state schools, and many club plans. To deliver these aims an accurate record of what is available is required. Strategic Leisure will work in partnership with everyone involved to develop a national strategy for facilities at all levels.

The current Government White Paper on Lottery Funding promises greater targeting and soliciting of lottery bids. Sports with agreed strategic priorities will be able to take full advantage of the significant capital funds available. The challenge for rowing is to ensure it galvanises the sport to achieve common goals by the time the White Paper becomes legislation. With an agreed list of strategic priorities in position, rowing will be well placed to see real change.

Strategic Leisure will co-ordinate and manage the research, seeking views of all those involved in the sport to ensure a comprehensive approach to the development of rowing. The company will:

• Review current policies,
• Meet key individuals/agencies,
• Send questionnaires to all clubs,
• Survey coaches and performance rowers,
• Hold focus group sessions,
• Conduct case study visits.

1. Identify facility deficiencies across the sport and establish options on filling gaps and setting priorities,
2. Target resources to meet the development needs,
3. Provide a coherent framework for external funding,
4. Identify the proactive development of strategic sites,
5. Enable development of model club hierarchies.

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© Copyright Regatta Magazine, 1998.