Sometimes it takes a village to create a youth rowing organization. The Manatee County Youth Rowing (MCYR) organization is the culmination of all the hard work from county commissioners, high school superintendent, local high school principals, athletic directors, volunteer coaches, and parents.

Comprised of student rowers from Manatee County middle and high schools.  MCYR encompasses over 60 athletes, most of whom did not know what a rowing shell looked like or had ever been in one.

Beginning with one 8 and one 4 for Palmetto High School, the combined high school fleet has grown to include four 8s, three 4s and a number of sculling boats in less than a year, thanks to the generous donations of Jane Lynch of TV’s “Glee” and her partner Lara Embry, local developers Benderson Development, Bill Vernon of Rives Isle, Pat Neal, the River Wilderness Community, and the tireless efforts of the parents and coaches to bring awareness of this opportunity for Manatee County’s youth.

Rowing out of the new county boathouse at Ft. Hamer, the MCYR athletes help maintain the building and grounds as well as host events for visiting collegiate teams during winter and spring breaks.  These visiting teams make a substantial positive economic impact in Manatee County, and all the welcome and hospitality they receive ensures they will continue to return year after year.