Whatcom Rowing Association

History of WRA

The Whatcom Rowing Association is a nonprofit, community-based rowing club that has served Whatcom County since 2011. We are dedicated to offering individuals of all ages the opportunity to learn the sport of rowing in a safe, fun and beautiful environment. We offer a variety of programs for all age groups and experience levels. Whether you have have previous experience or have never touched an oar we have something for you.

“While at Bloedel, I accidentally wandered into the WRA boathouse, that's all it took. I knew I wanted to be a part of everything I was seeing - the elegance of the shells, the allure of the water, the strength, focus, and energy!
- Mel Seu

The History

It was in December of 2010 that a small group of interested people met at the local Avenue Bread to talk about organizing a community rowing program for Bellingham. In spite of hurdles it was decided to give it a whirl and gather the information needed to turn this idea in to a reality. Everett Rowing Association and Sammamish Rowing Association were very helpful in providing input and insight for us to formulate a plan to proceed.

The Beginning

Since 2011 WRA has grown from an idea to a very active and successful addition to the sporting activities available to the local community. With the help of many local businesses, individuals, and support groups WRA has managed to build a boathouse, purchase boats, and help hundreds of people experience rowing as a new sporting activity.

The Boathouse

When WRA first started there was very little to see. The Bellingham Parks Department allowed the club to fence in a compound at the east end of the Bloedel Donovan Park to sore the original boats, which had been donated by other rowing clubs throughout Washington. Today, we have a beautiful boathouse with over 20 shells.

The Boathouse Project

Framing of the boathouse begins. — After curing the framing followed. This was impressive as the outline and scale of the building could be seen.

Widows and cladding are installed. — Windows and exterior cladding partially installed before staining.

Boat racks were installed. — The boat racks were installed and equipment was moved into the boathouse.

Fencing installed. — External fencing and signage was installed.

Boathouse Location:

Whatcom Rowing Association

2202 Electric Avenue

Bellingham, WA 98229

Mailing Address:

Whatcom Rowing Association

PO Box 1163

Bellingham, WA 98227

“Double Bubble” Rules and Regulations:

Independent Adult Members (if interested) may self-select a double partner that they agree to row with.
Independent Members are only allowed ONE doubles partner at this time.
ALL members regardless of whether or not you are entering into a “Double Bubble” need to sign the COVID Participation Waiver and Sculling Protocols Agreement.
You will be prompted to enter the name of your 2x’s partner while filling out the agreement form.
You will receive confirmation that your Double Bubble has been approved once both rowers have completed the COVID Participation Waiver and Sculling Protocols Agreement.
It is critical that we have accurate records of when members are in the boathouse. This is already required when rowing without a coach but as a reminder: Whether you are rowing independently in a private boat, club boat, or in 2x you MUST sign in and out on the Sculling Logbook (located on the bulletin board).
2x rowers will need to use the reservation calendar, as with singles there are no “Drop-Ins” allowed at this time. 2x’s should default to red sculling oars as the others are rigged for 1x’s at this time. Coached programming is indicated on the reservation calendar to help with dock/equipment usage.
Please note additional protocols that need to be followed for ALL rowers utilizing the WRA boathouse listed in the agreement below.
ALL Rowers (parents/guardians) must complete the WRA COVID Participation Waiver and Sculling Protocol Agreement.

We are relying on your cooperation and adherence to the protocols listed above and in the agreement to keep everyone at WRA healthy and safe!

History of WRA

“While at Bloedel, I accidentally wandered into the WRA boathouse, that's all it took. I knew I wanted to be a part of everything I was seeing - the elegance of the shells, the allure of the water, the strength, focus, and energy! - Mel Seu

The History

The Beginning

The Boathouse

The Boathouse Project

“While at Bloedel, I accidentally wandered into the WRA boathouse, that's all it took. I knew I wanted to be a part of everything I was seeing - the elegance of the shells, the allure of the water, the strength, focus, and energy!
- Mel Seu