This past weekend, on March 8th and 9th, the Nautical Club of Thessaloniki hosted the Transnational Project Meeting (TPM) of Oarsome Women, bringing together rowers, experts, and advocates to promote the participation of women over 40 in rowing. The timing of the event was particularly special, as it coincided with International Women’s Day, making it a true celebration of strength, inclusivity, and empowerment.

The weekend began with a warm welcome from our gracious hosts, setting the stage for an inspiring series of discussions and activities. A key highlight was an engaging seminar featuring Dr. Dimitra Kouklotidou, an experienced rower and doctor, who provided valuable insights into the physical and mental benefits of rowing for women over 40. Nikos Triantafyllou and Nasia Ioannidou, both experienced referees, followed with a session on the latest updates in Coastal Rowing regulations, ensuring participants were up to date with the evolving landscape of the sport.

A significant part of the event was dedicated to the Oarsome Women program itself. Rania Matzorakis introduced the initiative, emphasizing its mission to encourage and support women in rowing. This was followed by Anna Perini, who led an insightful session on communication strategies, highlighting the importance of visibility and outreach for women’s rowing. Finally, Jen Cunningham presented the proposed digital Row Log Book, an innovative tool designed to facilitate participation and track progress in the sport of coastal rowing.

With a strong turnout at the Nautical Club of Thessaloniki, the event was not only a valuable learning experience but also a powerful moment of community and inspiration. The atmosphere was filled with a shared passion for rowing and a collective commitment to making the sport more accessible and inclusive for women of all ages.

Marking International Women’s Day with such a dynamic and impactful gathering was a reminder of how sports like rowing can serve as a platform for empowerment, personal growth, and connection.

Oarsome Women continues to grow, and this TPM represents yet another milestone in our journey to support and expand women’s participation in rowing.

Stay tuned for more updates and future events!