COVID-19 has certainly changed the world and required a lot of new ways of doing things. The 2020 rowers for Mobjack and Mathews crew were no different, enduring the disappointment of no spring racing season.

Coach Tim Ulsaker wound up checking out ergometers to those who needed one and optional spring training continued at home with online workouts. As Virginia entered Phase 2, combined with guidelines from U.S. Rowing, Mobjack started on-water singles training.

Trials were held on June 1-2 and then regular training commenced June 8 for a Monday, Tuesday and Thursday summer schedule. The 27’ Singles, the spacious 16’ x 120’ docks at Williams Wharf and the uncongested welcoming East River waters all lent themselves well to social distancing and COVID-19 compliance, Ulsaker said.

Eleven participants have been coming regularly to morning and evening sessions throughout the summer.

Both Ulsaker and fellow coach Katelyn James have been impressed with the progress their rowers ...