The organization responsible for the annual Grand Regatta, will host its inaugural Grand River cleanup event this spring. The Grand Rapids Rowing Club cleanup will take place on Saturday, April 12, 2025, from 8:30 a.m. to noon, with volunteers gathering at Riverside Park, 2001 Monroe Ave. NE in Grand Rapids. The event will focus on removing debris from the Grand River, specifically in the area near LMCU Ballpark. Clean up supplies will be provided. Volunteers are encouraged to wear long sleeves and pants.
Founded in 1987, Grand Rapids Rowing Club has promoted community wellness through the sport of rowing for more than three decades. The club offers a variety of programs, including recreational and competitive rowing for adults, as well as a robust high school rowing initiative. The club welcomes participants of all skill levels, emphasizing teamwork, physical fitness, and fostering a connection to the Grand River.
“In addition to removing debris from the river, this event is about fostering a deeper connection between our community and the waterway we depend on,” said Grand Rapids Rowing Club head coach Jasper Lee.“We’re excited to launch this effort and hope to make it an annual tradition.”
As the cleanup event’s sponsor, Pioneer Water Treatment is providing funding, equipment, and volunteers to ensure the cleanup’s success. The company, dedicated to improving water quality in West Michigan, views the cleanup as a meaningful opportunity to give back to the community.
“We are committed to protecting West Michigan’s waterways and ensuring cleaner, healthier water for future generations,” said Jeff Troutman, co-owner, Pioneer Water Treatment. “Partnering with the Grand Rapids Rowing Club for this initiative is a natural fit, allowing us to take direct action in preserving the Grand River while strengthening our community’s connection to the water.”
Beyond its recreational and competitive adult rowing programs, the GRRC operates a competitive junior rowing program open to athletes from any high school. The junior program is designed to set the foundation for athletes to row successfully in collegiate programs.
“Our junior team plays a key role in the future of rowing in Grand Rapids,” Lee said. “We hope this event benefits the river and build connections with potential sponsors and supporters of our young athletes.”
To RSVP for the Grand Rapids Rowing Club and Pioneer Water Treatment River Clean Up, visit the GR Rowing Club Facebook page.
Sponsorship opportunities and donations can be made here. For more information, visit the Grand Rapids Rowing Club’s official website.
Save the Date! The Grand Regatta will take place Saturday, June 28, 2025
The Grand Rapids Rowing Club invites Junior and Masters teams to compete in a 1,000-meter sprint race on a scenic stretch of the Grand River. Celebrating over 30 years, the event draws hundreds of competitors and spectators each summer, with approximately 30-40 races ensuring a full day of action. The regatta is part of the Meijer State Games of Michigan, which take place during the last week of June across the city.
The Grand Rapids Rowing Club is located at 291 North Park NW, just north of downtown Grand Rapids. To sign up for the Grand Regatta, visit Regatta Central.
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