On the historic waters of the Buffalo River, a significant stride towards greater inclusivity in sports has been achieved with the introduction of “Overdrive,” a cutting-edge adaptive rowing shell. This remarkable addition to the local athletic landscape is poised to revolutionize water sports access, creating unprecedented opportunities for young athletes of all abilities to embrace the profound joys and challenges of rowing.
The Buffalo Scholastic Rowing Association (BSRA) proudly announced the integration of “Overdrive” into its distinguished fleet. This vessel is not merely a boat; it represents a meticulously engineered solution designed with specialized features to seamlessly accommodate rowers with diverse physical capabilities, ensuring that the sport is truly accessible to everyone.
For many years, a dedicated group of young athletes has been attending the BSRA programs, and the advent of “Overdrive” marks a pivotal moment for them. As highlighted by Seanna Zona, a respected coach for both Youth Learn to Row and other programs, having a boat specifically tailored to their needs signifies a monumental leap forward for the program and the entire club, fostering a deeper sense of belonging and empowerment.
The realization of the “Overdrive” project was made possible through the generous funding and unwavering support of the New Car Dealers of WNY Charitable Foundation. This crucial financial backing facilitated the boat’s intricate retrofitting process, equipping it with advanced adaptive features that open the doors for a larger demographic of young individuals in Western New York to actively engage in the sport of rowing.
The personal impact of this initiative resonates deeply within the community. Joe Petrella, father of young Sam, shared how his son’s natural affinity for water and enjoyment of group activities made this adaptive rowing opportunity particularly significant. It presented an exciting new avenue for Sam to excel and explore his athletic potential in an environment designed for success.
Before its maiden voyage, “Overdrive” was honored with a traditional christening ceremony, a time-honored maritime ritual featuring “finish line water” to bestow good fortune. This symbolic act was followed by an impressive row-by on the Buffalo River, allowing the community to witness the new vessel in action and celebrate its arrival.
Adding to the experience, a reporter had the unique opportunity to join some of the students and competitive rowers aboard “Overdrive” for its inaugural spin. This firsthand account underscored the boat’s exceptional design and the immediate positive impact it had on the participants, demonstrating its smooth integration into the rowing activities.
Kris Arcuri, President of the Buffalo Scholastic Rowing Association Board, aptly described the day as “long coming,” emphasizing the culmination of extensive efforts. Arcuri specifically lauded board member Eileen Flaherty, whose tireless dedication transformed this vision into reality. Flaherty’s commitment to the project was so profound that it became a true “passion project,” driving not only the creation of an inclusive program but also securing the vital funding and grants for the necessary infrastructure.
The ultimate reward, as articulated by Arcuri, is witnessing the sheer “joy and the smiles” on the faces of the young athletes. From the anticipation of getting into the water to the exhilaration of rowing and the satisfaction of disembarking, the experience fosters not only physical activity but also invaluable friendships and a strong sense of community among participants, reinforcing the profound benefits of inclusive sports.
