Immersion Weekends provide an introduction to the fundamentals of “sweep rowing” (one oar per rower) in an intensive, one-weekend session. The lessons include erging (rowing on land-based rowing machines) and rowing in a boat on the water. The class is designed for aspiring Masters Rowers (post-college undergraduates and older adults) with no experience, but is also a good refresher for someone who has taken lessons and wants to get back into rowing. After taking the class, students are eligible to join the Knoxville Rowing Association to row with the members on a regular basis.
Currently, the June 13-14 (2026) class still has openings. The total cost of the class is $250, including a $100 deposit payable up front with the remainder due at the beginning of the weekend. If you are interested, please send a check for $100 to Knoxville Rowing Association, PO Box 50831, Knoxville, TN 37950. Enrollment is limited to 6-7 per class, and your deposit will hold your place in the class. Please include this completed form with your check. We will not cash the check if we are unable to place you in the class. The lessons take place at the Ned McWherter/Riverside Landing Park on Riverside Drive (underneath the James White Parkway bridge on the north side of the river). The schedule for a typical Immersion Weekend is Saturday 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM, and Sunday 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM.
After completing the lessons, you can join the Knoxville Rowing Association and participate in group rows. In the summer, informal coaching assistance is provided during group rows on Monday evenings at 6:30 PM. The club also rows together on Wednesdays at 6:30 PM and Saturday mornings.
If you have any questions, please email us at lessons@knoxrowing.com or call Kim Davis at (865) 964-3103.
Experienced: Know how to row?
If you have rowed before in high school, college, or for recreation and feel that you are an experienced rower, you are welcome to join us in our regular rows! You may try us out before committing to joining the club. In accordance with our bylaws and for safety considerations, those who do not exhibit a level of competence will be required to go through lessons before joining. Check the membership page for more information.
Directions to the Ned McWherter Park and our dock can be found here.