Most of my spring weekends are spent at Nathan Benderson Park in Sarasota, Florida, where my high school daughter, Karley, rows for Sarasota Crew. Now in her third year, I’ve learned just how much hard work and commitment this sport takes. Rowing is no joke. It’s physically tough but also very mental. These athletes have to stay in sync, trust each other and push through every practice and race. They compete at both regional and national levels, and there are often college recruiters there watching.
Nathan Benderson Tower
FSRA Sculling State Championships on April 12
FSRA Sweep State Championships on April 25
What makes it even more special is the location. Nathan Benderson Park isn’t just a local lake; it’s known as one of the top rowing venues in the country. It has a 2,000-meter course that meets international standards and has hosted big events like World Rowing championships and Olympic trials. Teams travel from all over the country (and even other countries) to race here.
It’s right by UTC Mall and the new Mote Marine Lab & Aquarium, so a lot of people just see it when they’re driving by on I-75. But if you spend any real time there, you realize it’s so much more than that. It’s where kids train hard, where big races happen, and where a strong community comes together around the sport.
Mote Aquarium
Karley and her teammates usually end up at our house for post-race ice baths, to help reduce soreness, and get them ready to do it all over again.
Karley in the ice bath with her teammates
We’re really lucky to have something like this right here in Sarasota.
— Darla Mossotti, account executive
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