Dear PNRA Rowing Family Member,
On March 12, we made a difficult decision to close the Caspersen Rowing Center and go to “virtual” programing due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In the past 5 weeks, we have watched as schools, business and even Parks have been closed in an effort to control the spread of this virus.
At the time we made our decision, a major concern was how our rowing community would respond to the challenges and changes we were facing. The reaction and support have been amazing. We have come together as a community to continue the programs and through them to support each other. Our athletes of all ages, parents, supporters and especially the coaching staff, have all made a huge effort to continue to provide programing that enhances the lives of all of us in this time when it desperately needed.
On behalf of PNRA, the Mercer Programs and all in our rowing community, I want to express our sincerely appreciation and to each one of you.
At PNRA we remain committed to getting people back in boats and on the water. We also know that the health and safety of our community is paramount in any actions we take. Earlier this week, N.J. Governor Phil Murphy said that he does not see things in New Jersey loosening up for at least another 30 days. This means that the remainder of the spring program will continue in the virtual realm.
While we are still planning to offer full summer programing at the Caspersen Rowing Center, it will have to incorporate whatever guidelines and restrictions are still in place when we get to June. We will work to keep you informed of the status as we get closer to the summer programs.
On this Mercer Lake Sprints weekend we are celebrating the virtual edition of this event looking out at the rain rather than spending the day out in it. This does come with mixed feelings as we will not be able to experience the efforts of our athletes as they race down the course on Mercer Lake. But we also know that the efforts that we are tanking now will yield to a time in the near future when we will be back on the water again.
Thank you for your support and we welcome any thoughts and ideas that you may have on how we can improve our programs.
Please stay healthy and safe,
Kris Grudt