About CBRC
Our goal is to provide the highest quality instruction and competition for rowers of all ages.
Commencement Bay Rowing Club is committed to serving the South Sound rowing community with the highest quality rowing programs. CBRC began with a single four-oared racing shell in 1992. Since then, we've grown to become one of the premier rowing clubs in the South Puget Sound area, offering programs for juniors (middle and high school students) and masters (post-college).
Address & Access
8928 North Thorne Lane SW
Lakewood, WA 98498
Access is through the main gate at the front of Harry Todd Park. Adult team members will generally access the park through the rear gate (found along North Thorne Lane) for morning practices.
The Boathouse
The CBRC boathouse is conveniently located south of Tacoma off I-5 on beautiful, tree-lined American Lake in Lakewood's Harry Todd Park.
The boathouse was built through the generosity of Tacoma area foundations, businesses, and individuals in support of youth and community rowing.
Since opening in 1997, the boathouse has been home to CBRC and collegiate crews from Pacific Lutheran University and the University of Puget Sound.
With four active boat bays, a work bay, and banquet and meeting facilities, this modern boathouse provides South Sound rowers with access to some of the best rowing water in the Northwest.
Annual Memberships
Individuals using the services and equipment of Commencement Bay Rowing Club will be required to pay an annual membership fee of $50 in the Spring of each year. Membership also confers voting privileges to elect members of CBRC's Board of Directors annually every May.
For junior rowers there will be an annual membership fee for each rower and the voting privileges go to a parent or guardian with one vote per rower. In addition, non-rowing supporters of CBRC are encouraged to join and to pay an annual membership fee, which will not only support the club but also allow voting privileges for those individuals.
Governance
CBRC is as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization operating through the guidance of experienced coaches, an elected board of directors, and countless other dedicated volunteers.
Reflection for American Lake
As we feel the rhythm of our oars in these waters, we acknowledge that we are rowing on the ancestral homelands and waterways of the Cayuse, Umatilla and Walla Walla, dxwsqwali?abs (Nisqually), and Steilacoom peoples. Our relationship with this lake is one of motion and connection, and our commitment is to protect its health and its inhabitants. Through actions like regular cleanups and helping others learn to row with respect, we strive to honor not only the water itself but also the enduring connection of the Indigenous peoples to this place. We will carry this reflection with us, ensuring our stewardship is an ongoing practice of care for this land and these waters.
