080520 CL Rowing Club Juniors clinic (MA)

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Members of the Crystal Lake Rowing Club Juniors unload their boat from the Kamijima Park Boathouse during a clinic for potential new members on Crystal Lake on Wednesday, Aug. 5, 2020 in Crystal Lake. Though competitions have been canceled through 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the team is able to continue practices as a low-risk sport, with manditory masks worn on land. "It was really fun," said Ellyn Grigson of Barrington, 14. "It's not something you can pick up like that. It takes some practice." Grigson is one of four potential new members who attended Wednesday's clinic and has been boating before but the sport of rowing is new to her. "It wasn't really too hard. I really like boating," she added. Rowing instructor and former club member Alex Jimenez of Lake in the Hills, 20, was a member of the club throughout his four years in high school at Crystal Lake South and has joined the rowing club at Northwestern University, where he is entering his third year. Over the summers since aging out of the club, Jimenez likes to help out by attending practices and teaching a newer generation of rowers. "They pick it up really quickly. This is a really good group. They're good at motivating each other," he said, noting that the turnout among potential newer members is a little smaller than in years past due to the pandemic. "We're all very hopeful looking forward," he added, looking forward to competing in the US Rowing national competition in May. In the two years Jiminez has been helping out since going to college, he has seen formerly new members Gavin Kempf-Kutemeier and Rhianna Petersen, both 15 and of Crystal Lake, mature as rowers and become leaders in the club. "They really are model rowers," he said of Kempf-Kutemeier and Petersen. Staying active with the group has helped Jiminez as well. "It makes me feel like I've done good. Like I've helped people find a new sport." The club is open to youth in grades 8 through 12 and is always looking for new talent among interested athletes. This week's clinic continues Thursday, but another clinic is scheduled for next week on Aug. 11 through 13 from 6 am to 8 am and costs $150 for the three-day session with a limit of 8 participants per session. No experience is required but participants must be able to tread water for 10 minutes without assistance, and masks must be worn on land to comply with state guidelines.

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Members of the Crystal Lake Rowing Club Juniors prepare to load their boat into the water from the Kamijima Park Boathouse during a clinic for potential new members on Crystal Lake on Wednesday, Aug. 5, 2020 in Crystal Lake. Though competitions have been canceled through 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the team is able to continue practices as a low-risk sport, with manditory masks worn on land. "It was really fun," said Ellyn Grigson of Barrington, 14. "It's not something you can pick up like that. It takes some practice." Grigson is one of four potential new members who attended Wednesday's clinic and has been boating before but the sport of rowing is new to her. "It wasn't really too hard. I really like boating," she added. Rowing instructor and former club member Alex Jimenez of Lake in the Hills, 20, was a member of the club throughout his four years in high school at Crystal Lake South and has joined the rowing club at Northwestern University, where he is entering his third year. Over the summers since aging out of the club, Jimenez likes to help out by attending practices and teaching a newer generation of rowers. "They pick it up really quickly. This is a really good group. They're good at motivating each other," he said, noting that the turnout among potential newer members is a little smaller than in years past due to the pandemic. "We're all very hopeful looking forward," he added, looking forward to competing in the US Rowing national competition in May. In the two years Jiminez has been helping out since going to college, he has seen formerly new members Gavin Kempf-Kutemeier and Rhianna Petersen, both 15 and of Crystal Lake, mature as rowers and become leaders in the club. "They really are model rowers," he said of Kempf-Kutemeier and Petersen. Staying active with the group has helped Jiminez as well. "It makes me feel like I've done good. Like I've helped people find a new sport." The club is open to youth in grades 8 through 12 and is always looking for new talent among interested athletes. This week's clinic continues Thursday, but another clinic is scheduled for next week on Aug. 11 through 13 from 6 am to 8 am and costs $150 for the three-day session with a limit of 8 participants per session. No experience is required but participants must be able to tread water for 10 minutes without assistance, and masks must be worn on land to comply with state guidelines.

hnews_0805_CL_Rowers

Anna Borg of Crystal Lake, 14, helps carry the boat to the water from the Kamijima Park Boathouse during a clinic for the Crystal Lake Rowing Club Juniors on Crystal Lake on Wednesday, Aug. 5, 2020 in Crystal Lake. Though competitions have been canceled through 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the team is able to continue practices as a low-risk sport, with manditory masks worn on land. "It was really fun," said Ellyn Grigson of Barrington, 14. "It's not something you can pick up like that. It takes some practice." Grigson is one of four potential new members who attended Wednesday's clinic and has been boating before but the sport of rowing is new to her. "It wasn't really too hard. I really like boating," she added. Rowing instructor and former club member Alex Jimenez of Lake in the Hills, 20, was a member of the club throughout his four years in high school at Crystal Lake South and has joined the rowing club at Northwestern University, where he is entering his third year. Over the summers since aging out of the club, Jimenez likes to help out by attending practices and teaching a newer generation of rowers. "They pick it up really quickly. This is a really good group. They're good at motivating each other," he said, noting that the turnout among potential newer members is a little smaller than in years past due to the pandemic. "We're all very hopeful looking forward," he added, looking forward to competing in the US Rowing national competition in May. In the two years Jiminez has been helping out since going to college, he has seen formerly new members Gavin Kempf-Kutemeier and Rhianna Petersen, both 15 and of Crystal Lake, mature as rowers and become leaders in the club. "They really are model rowers," he said of Kempf-Kutemeier and Petersen. Staying active with the group has helped Jiminez as well. "It makes me feel like I've done good. Like I've helped people find a new sport." The club is open to youth in grades 8 through 12 and is always looking for new talent among interested athletes. This week's clinic continues Thursday, but another clinic is scheduled for next week on Aug. 11 through 13 from 6 am to 8 am and costs $150 for the three-day session with a limit of 8 participants per session. No experience is required but participants must be able to tread water for 10 minutes without assistance, and masks must be worn on land to comply with state guidelines.

hnews_0805_CL_Rowers

Crystal Lake Rowing Club Juniors members Gavin Kempf-Kutemeier, left, and Rhianna Petersen, both 15 and of Crystal Lake, load a boat into the water during a clinic for potential new members on Crystal Lake on Wednesday, Aug. 5, 2020 in Crystal Lake. Though competitions have been canceled through 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the team is able to continue practices as a low-risk sport, with manditory masks worn on land. "It was really fun," said Ellyn Grigson of Barrington, 14. "It's not something you can pick up like that. It takes some practice." Grigson is one of four potential new members who attended Wednesday's clinic and has been boating before but the sport of rowing is new to her. "It wasn't really too hard. I really like boating," she added. Rowing instructor and former club member Alex Jimenez of Lake in the Hills, 20, was a member of the club throughout his four years in high school at Crystal Lake South and has joined the rowing club at Northwestern University, where he is entering his third year. Over the summers since aging out of the club, Jimenez likes to help out by attending practices and teaching a newer generation of rowers. "They pick it up really quickly. This is a really good group. They're good at motivating each other," he said, noting that the turnout among potential newer members is a little smaller than in years past due to the pandemic. "We're all very hopeful looking forward," he added, looking forward to competing in the US Rowing national competition in May. In the two years Jiminez has been helping out since going to college, he has seen formerly new members Gavin Kempf-Kutemeier and Rhianna Petersen, both 15 and of Crystal Lake, mature as rowers and become leaders in the club. "They really are model rowers," he said of Kempf-Kutemeier and Petersen. Staying active with the group has helped Jiminez as well. "It makes me feel like I've done good. Like I've helped people find a new sport." The club is open to youth in grades 8 through 12 and is always looking for new talent among interested athletes. This week's clinic continues Thursday, but another clinic is scheduled for next week on Aug. 11 through 13 from 6 am to 8 am and costs $150 for the three-day session with a limit of 8 participants per session. No experience is required but participants must be able to tread water for 10 minutes without assistance, and masks must be worn on land to comply with state guidelines.

hnews_0805_CL_Rowers

Members of the Crystal Lake Rowing Club Juniors help four potential new members learn the sport during a clinic on Crystal Lake on Wednesday, Aug. 5, 2020 in Crystal Lake. Though competitions have been canceled through 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the team is able to continue practices as a low-risk sport, with manditory masks worn on land. "It was really fun," said Ellyn Grigson of Barrington, 14. "It's not something you can pick up like that. It takes some practice." Grigson is one of four potential new members who attended Wednesday's clinic and has been boating before but the sport of rowing is new to her. "It wasn't really too hard. I really like boating," she added. Rowing instructor and former club member Alex Jimenez of Lake in the Hills, 20, was a member of the club throughout his four years in high school at Crystal Lake South and has joined the rowing club at Northwestern University, where he is entering his third year. Over the summers since aging out of the club, Jimenez likes to help out by attending practices and teaching a newer generation of rowers. "They pick it up really quickly. This is a really good group. They're good at motivating each other," he said, noting that the turnout among potential newer members is a little smaller than in years past due to the pandemic. "We're all very hopeful looking forward," he added, looking forward to competing in the US Rowing national competition in May. In the two years Jiminez has been helping out since going to college, he has seen formerly new members Gavin Kempf-Kutemeier and Rhianna Petersen, both 15 and of Crystal Lake, mature as rowers and become leaders in the club. "They really are model rowers," he said of Kempf-Kutemeier and Petersen. Staying active with the group has helped Jiminez as well. "It makes me feel like I've done good. Like I've helped people find a new sport." The club is open to youth in grades 8 through 12 and is always looking for new talent among interested athletes. This week's clinic continues Thursday, but another clinic is scheduled for next week on Aug. 11 through 13 from 6 am to 8 am and costs $150 for the three-day session with a limit of 8 participants per session. No experience is required but participants must be able to tread water for 10 minutes without assistance, and masks must be worn on land to comply with state guidelines.

hnews_0805_CL_Rowers

Crystal Lake Rowing Club Juniors members return their oars to the Kamijima Park Boathouse after a clinic for potential new members on Crystal Lake on Wednesday, Aug. 5, 2020 in Crystal Lake. Though competitions have been canceled through 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the team is able to continue practices as a low-risk sport, with manditory masks worn on land. "It was really fun," said Ellyn Grigson of Barrington, 14. "It's not something you can pick up like that. It takes some practice." Grigson is one of four potential new members who attended Wednesday's clinic and has been boating before but the sport of rowing is new to her. "It wasn't really too hard. I really like boating," she added. Rowing instructor and former club member Alex Jimenez of Lake in the Hills, 20, was a member of the club throughout his four years in high school at Crystal Lake South and has joined the rowing club at Northwestern University, where he is entering his third year. Over the summers since aging out of the club, Jimenez likes to help out by attending practices and teaching a newer generation of rowers. "They pick it up really quickly. This is a really good group. They're good at motivating each other," he said, noting that the turnout among potential newer members is a little smaller than in years past due to the pandemic. "We're all very hopeful looking forward," he added, looking forward to competing in the US Rowing national competition in May. In the two years Jiminez has been helping out since going to college, he has seen formerly new members Gavin Kempf-Kutemeier and Rhianna Petersen, both 15 and of Crystal Lake, mature as rowers and become leaders in the club. "They really are model rowers," he said of Kempf-Kutemeier and Petersen. Staying active with the group has helped Jiminez as well. "It makes me feel like I've done good. Like I've helped people find a new sport." The club is open to youth in grades 8 through 12 and is always looking for new talent among interested athletes. This week's clinic continues Thursday, but another clinic is scheduled for next week on Aug. 11 through 13 from 6 am to 8 am and costs $150 for the three-day session with a limit of 8 participants per session. No experience is required but participants must be able to tread water for 10 minutes without assistance, and masks must be worn on land to comply with state guidelines.

hnews_0805_CL_Rowers

Members of the Crystal Lake Rowing Club Juniors help four potential new members learn the sport during a clinic on Crystal Lake on Wednesday, Aug. 5, 2020 in Crystal Lake. Though competitions have been canceled through 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the team is able to continue practices as a low-risk sport, with manditory masks worn on land. "It was really fun," said Ellyn Grigson of Barrington, 14. "It's not something you can pick up like that. It takes some practice." Grigson is one of four potential new members who attended Wednesday's clinic and has been boating before but the sport of rowing is new to her. "It wasn't really too hard. I really like boating," she added. Rowing instructor and former club member Alex Jimenez of Lake in the Hills, 20, was a member of the club throughout his four years in high school at Crystal Lake South and has joined the rowing club at Northwestern University, where he is entering his third year. Over the summers since aging out of the club, Jimenez likes to help out by attending practices and teaching a newer generation of rowers. "They pick it up really quickly. This is a really good group. They're good at motivating each other," he said, noting that the turnout among potential newer members is a little smaller than in years past due to the pandemic. "We're all very hopeful looking forward," he added, looking forward to competing in the US Rowing national competition in May. In the two years Jiminez has been helping out since going to college, he has seen formerly new members Gavin Kempf-Kutemeier and Rhianna Petersen, both 15 and of Crystal Lake, mature as rowers and become leaders in the club. "They really are model rowers," he said of Kempf-Kutemeier and Petersen. Staying active with the group has helped Jiminez as well. "It makes me feel like I've done good. Like I've helped people find a new sport." The club is open to youth in grades 8 through 12 and is always looking for new talent among interested athletes. This week's clinic continues Thursday, but another clinic is scheduled for next week on Aug. 11 through 13 from 6 am to 8 am and costs $150 for the three-day session with a limit of 8 participants per session. No experience is required but participants must be able to tread water for 10 minutes without assistance, and masks must be worn on land to comply with state guidelines.

hnews_0805_CL_Rowers

Alex Jimenez of Lake in the Hills, 20, looks back as members of the Crystal Lake Rowing Club Juniors help four potential new members learn the sport during a clinic on Crystal Lake during a clinic for the Crystal Lake Rowing Club Juniors on Crystal Lake on Wednesday, Aug. 5, 2020 in Crystal Lake. Though competitions have been canceled through 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the team is able to continue practices as a low-risk sport, with manditory masks worn on land. "It was really fun," said Ellyn Grigson of Barrington, 14. "It's not something you can pick up like that. It takes some practice." Grigson is one of four potential new members who attended Wednesday's clinic and has been boating before but the sport of rowing is new to her. "It wasn't really too hard. I really like boating," she added. Rowing instructor and former club member Alex Jimenez of Lake in the Hills, 20, was a member of the club throughout his four years in high school at Crystal Lake South and has joined the rowing club at Northwestern University, where he is entering his third year. Over the summers since aging out of the club, Jimenez likes to help out by attending practices and teaching a newer generation of rowers. "They pick it up really quickly. This is a really good group. They're good at motivating each other," he said, noting that the turnout among potential newer members is a little smaller than in years past due to the pandemic. "We're all very hopeful looking forward," he added, looking forward to competing in the US Rowing national competition in May. In the two years Jiminez has been helping out since going to college, he has seen formerly new members Gavin Kempf-Kutemeier and Rhianna Petersen, both 15 and of Crystal Lake, mature as rowers and become leaders in the club. "They really are model rowers," he said of Kempf-Kutemeier and Petersen. Staying active with the group has helped Jiminez as well. "It makes me feel like I've done good. Like I've helped people find a new sport." The club is open to youth in grades 8 through 12 and is always looking for new talent among interested athletes. This week's clinic continues Thursday, but another clinic is scheduled for next week on Aug. 11 through 13 from 6 am to 8 am and costs $150 for the three-day session with a limit of 8 participants per session. No experience is required but participants must be able to tread water for 10 minutes without assistance, and masks must be worn on land to comply with state guidelines.

hnews_0805_CL_Rowers

Abbey Zaletel of Lakewood, 14, right, calls out rowing instructions as Scarlett Quinn of Crystal Lake, 15, sits in the 8 seat and helps four potential new members of the club learn the sport during a clinic on Crystal Lake on Wednesday, Aug. 5, 2020 in Crystal Lake. Though competitions have been canceled through 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the team is able to continue practices as a low-risk sport, with manditory masks worn on land. "It was really fun," said Ellyn Grigson of Barrington, 14. "It's not something you can pick up like that. It takes some practice." Grigson is one of four potential new members who attended Wednesday's clinic and has been boating before but the sport of rowing is new to her. "It wasn't really too hard. I really like boating," she added. Rowing instructor and former club member Alex Jimenez of Lake in the Hills, 20, was a member of the club throughout his four years in high school at Crystal Lake South and has joined the rowing club at Northwestern University, where he is entering his third year. Over the summers since aging out of the club, Jimenez likes to help out by attending practices and teaching a newer generation of rowers. "They pick it up really quickly. This is a really good group. They're good at motivating each other," he said, noting that the turnout among potential newer members is a little smaller than in years past due to the pandemic. "We're all very hopeful looking forward," he added, looking forward to competing in the US Rowing national competition in May. In the two years Jiminez has been helping out since going to college, he has seen formerly new members Gavin Kempf-Kutemeier and Rhianna Petersen, both 15 and of Crystal Lake, mature as rowers and become leaders in the club. "They really are model rowers," he said of Kempf-Kutemeier and Petersen. Staying active with the group has helped Jiminez as well. "It makes me feel like I've done good. Like I've helped people find a new sport." The club is open to youth in grades 8 through 12 and is always looking for new talent among interested athletes. This week's clinic continues Thursday, but another clinic is scheduled for next week on Aug. 11 through 13 from 6 am to 8 am and costs $150 for the three-day session with a limit of 8 participants per session. No experience is required but participants must be able to tread water for 10 minutes without assistance, and masks must be worn on land to comply with state guidelines.

hnews_0805_CL_Rowers

From left: Crystal Lake Rowing Club Juniors members Gavin Kempf-Kutemeier of Crystal Lake and Brey Stacoviak of Woodstock, both 15, help Ryan Flynn, 13, and Marlee Cox, 12, both of Crystal Lake, learn the sport of rowing during a clinic on Crystal Lake on Wednesday, Aug. 5, 2020 in Crystal Lake. Though competitions have been canceled through 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the team is able to continue practices as a low-risk sport, with manditory masks worn on land. "It was really fun," said Ellyn Grigson of Barrington, 14. "It's not something you can pick up like that. It takes some practice." Grigson is one of four potential new members who attended Wednesday's clinic and has been boating before but the sport of rowing is new to her. "It wasn't really too hard. I really like boating," she added. Rowing instructor and former club member Alex Jimenez of Lake in the Hills, 20, was a member of the club throughout his four years in high school at Crystal Lake South and has joined the rowing club at Northwestern University, where he is entering his third year. Over the summers since aging out of the club, Jimenez likes to help out by attending practices and teaching a newer generation of rowers. "They pick it up really quickly. This is a really good group. They're good at motivating each other," he said, noting that the turnout among potential newer members is a little smaller than in years past due to the pandemic. "We're all very hopeful looking forward," he added, looking forward to competing in the US Rowing national competition in May. In the two years Jiminez has been helping out since going to college, he has seen formerly new members Gavin Kempf-Kutemeier and Rhianna Petersen, both 15 and of Crystal Lake, mature as rowers and become leaders in the club. "They really are model rowers," he said of Kempf-Kutemeier and Petersen. Staying active with the group has helped Jiminez as well. "It makes me feel like I've done good. Like I've helped people find a new sport." The club is open to youth in grades 8 through 12 and is always looking for new talent among interested athletes. This week's clinic continues Thursday, but another clinic is scheduled for next week on Aug. 11 through 13 from 6 am to 8 am and costs $150 for the three-day session with a limit of 8 participants per session. No experience is required but participants must be able to tread water for 10 minutes without assistance, and masks must be worn on land to comply with state guidelines.

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Crystal Lake Rowing Club Juniors member Rhianna Petersen of Crystal Lake, 15, rows in the background as other members of the organization help four potential new members learn the sport during a clinic on Crystal Lake on Wednesday, Aug. 5, 2020 in Crystal Lake. Though competitions have been canceled through 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the team is able to continue practices as a low-risk sport, with manditory masks worn on land. "It was really fun," said Ellyn Grigson of Barrington, 14. "It's not something you can pick up like that. It takes some practice." Grigson is one of four potential new members who attended Wednesday's clinic and has been boating before but the sport of rowing is new to her. "It wasn't really too hard. I really like boating," she added. Rowing instructor and former club member Alex Jimenez of Lake in the Hills, 20, was a member of the club throughout his four years in high school at Crystal Lake South and has joined the rowing club at Northwestern University, where he is entering his third year. Over the summers since aging out of the club, Jimenez likes to help out by attending practices and teaching a newer generation of rowers. "They pick it up really quickly. This is a really good group. They're good at motivating each other," he said, noting that the turnout among potential newer members is a little smaller than in years past due to the pandemic. "We're all very hopeful looking forward," he added, looking forward to competing in the US Rowing national competition in May. In the two years Jiminez has been helping out since going to college, he has seen formerly new members Gavin Kempf-Kutemeier and Rhianna Petersen, both 15 and of Crystal Lake, mature as rowers and become leaders in the club. "They really are model rowers," he said of Kempf-Kutemeier and Petersen. Staying active with the group has helped Jiminez as well. "It makes me feel like I've done good. Like I've helped people find a new sport." The club is open to youth in grades 8 through 12 and is always looking for new talent among interested athletes. This week's clinic continues Thursday, but another clinic is scheduled for next week on Aug. 11 through 13 from 6 am to 8 am and costs $150 for the three-day session with a limit of 8 participants per session. No experience is required but participants must be able to tread water for 10 minutes without assistance, and masks must be worn on land to comply with state guidelines.

hnews_0805_CL_Rowers

Alex Jimenez of Lake in the Hills, 20, calls out instruction for members of the Crystal Lake Rowing Club Juniors and four potential new members as they learn the sport during a clinic on Crystal Lake during a clinic for the Crystal Lake Rowing Club Juniors on Crystal Lake on Wednesday, Aug. 5, 2020 in Crystal Lake. Though competitions have been canceled through 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the team is able to continue practices as a low-risk sport, with manditory masks worn on land. "It was really fun," said Ellyn Grigson of Barrington, 14. "It's not something you can pick up like that. It takes some practice." Grigson is one of four potential new members who attended Wednesday's clinic and has been boating before but the sport of rowing is new to her. "It wasn't really too hard. I really like boating," she added. Rowing instructor and former club member Alex Jimenez of Lake in the Hills, 20, was a member of the club throughout his four years in high school at Crystal Lake South and has joined the rowing club at Northwestern University, where he is entering his third year. Over the summers since aging out of the club, Jimenez likes to help out by attending practices and teaching a newer generation of rowers. "They pick it up really quickly. This is a really good group. They're good at motivating each other," he said, noting that the turnout among potential newer members is a little smaller than in years past due to the pandemic. "We're all very hopeful looking forward," he added, looking forward to competing in the US Rowing national competition in May. In the two years Jiminez has been helping out since going to college, he has seen formerly new members Gavin Kempf-Kutemeier and Rhianna Petersen, both 15 and of Crystal Lake, mature as rowers and become leaders in the club. "They really are model rowers," he said of Kempf-Kutemeier and Petersen. Staying active with the group has helped Jiminez as well. "It makes me feel like I've done good. Like I've helped people find a new sport." The club is open to youth in grades 8 through 12 and is always looking for new talent among interested athletes. This week's clinic continues Thursday, but another clinic is scheduled for next week on Aug. 11 through 13 from 6 am to 8 am and costs $150 for the three-day session with a limit of 8 participants per session. No experience is required but participants must be able to tread water for 10 minutes without assistance, and masks must be worn on land to comply with state guidelines.

hnews_0805_CL_Rowers

Ellyn Grigson of Barrington, 14, leans back while rowing with the Crystal Lake Rowing Club Juniors during a clinic on Crystal Lake on Wednesday, Aug. 5, 2020 in Crystal Lake. Though competitions have been canceled through 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the team is able to continue practices as a low-risk sport, with manditory masks worn on land. "It was really fun," said Ellyn Grigson of Barrington, 14. "It's not something you can pick up like that. It takes some practice." Grigson is one of four potential new members who attended Wednesday's clinic and has been boating before but the sport of rowing is new to her. "It wasn't really too hard. I really like boating," she added. Rowing instructor and former club member Alex Jimenez of Lake in the Hills, 20, was a member of the club throughout his four years in high school at Crystal Lake South and has joined the rowing club at Northwestern University, where he is entering his third year. Over the summers since aging out of the club, Jimenez likes to help out by attending practices and teaching a newer generation of rowers. "They pick it up really quickly. This is a really good group. They're good at motivating each other," he said, noting that the turnout among potential newer members is a little smaller than in years past due to the pandemic. "We're all very hopeful looking forward," he added, looking forward to competing in the US Rowing national competition in May. In the two years Jiminez has been helping out since going to college, he has seen formerly new members Gavin Kempf-Kutemeier and Rhianna Petersen, both 15 and of Crystal Lake, mature as rowers and become leaders in the club. "They really are model rowers," he said of Kempf-Kutemeier and Petersen. Staying active with the group has helped Jiminez as well. "It makes me feel like I've done good. Like I've helped people find a new sport." The club is open to youth in grades 8 through 12 and is always looking for new talent among interested athletes. This week's clinic continues Thursday, but another clinic is scheduled for next week on Aug. 11 through 13 from 6 am to 8 am and costs $150 for the three-day session with a limit of 8 participants per session. No experience is required but participants must be able to tread water for 10 minutes without assistance, and masks must be worn on land to comply with state guidelines.

hnews_0805_CL_Rowers

Members of the Crystal Lake Rowing Club Juniors help four potential new members learn the sport during a clinic on Crystal Lake on Wednesday, Aug. 5, 2020 in Crystal Lake. Though competitions have been canceled through 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the team is able to continue practices as a low-risk sport, with manditory masks worn on land. "It was really fun," said Ellyn Grigson of Barrington, 14. "It's not something you can pick up like that. It takes some practice." Grigson is one of four potential new members who attended Wednesday's clinic and has been boating before but the sport of rowing is new to her. "It wasn't really too hard. I really like boating," she added. Rowing instructor and former club member Alex Jimenez of Lake in the Hills, 20, was a member of the club throughout his four years in high school at Crystal Lake South and has joined the rowing club at Northwestern University, where he is entering his third year. Over the summers since aging out of the club, Jimenez likes to help out by attending practices and teaching a newer generation of rowers. "They pick it up really quickly. This is a really good group. They're good at motivating each other," he said, noting that the turnout among potential newer members is a little smaller than in years past due to the pandemic. "We're all very hopeful looking forward," he added, looking forward to competing in the US Rowing national competition in May. In the two years Jiminez has been helping out since going to college, he has seen formerly new members Gavin Kempf-Kutemeier and Rhianna Petersen, both 15 and of Crystal Lake, mature as rowers and become leaders in the club. "They really are model rowers," he said of Kempf-Kutemeier and Petersen. Staying active with the group has helped Jiminez as well. "It makes me feel like I've done good. Like I've helped people find a new sport." The club is open to youth in grades 8 through 12 and is always looking for new talent among interested athletes. This week's clinic continues Thursday, but another clinic is scheduled for next week on Aug. 11 through 13 from 6 am to 8 am and costs $150 for the three-day session with a limit of 8 participants per session. No experience is required but participants must be able to tread water for 10 minutes without assistance, and masks must be worn on land to comply with state guidelines.

hnews_0805_CL_Rowers

Alex Jimenez of Lake in the Hills, 20, calls out instruction for members of the Crystal Lake Rowing Club Juniors and four potential new members as they learn the sport during a clinic on Crystal Lake during a clinic for the Crystal Lake Rowing Club Juniors on Crystal Lake on Wednesday, Aug. 5, 2020 in Crystal Lake. Though competitions have been canceled through 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the team is able to continue practices as a low-risk sport, with manditory masks worn on land. "It was really fun," said Ellyn Grigson of Barrington, 14. "It's not something you can pick up like that. It takes some practice." Grigson is one of four potential new members who attended Wednesday's clinic and has been boating before but the sport of rowing is new to her. "It wasn't really too hard. I really like boating," she added. Rowing instructor and former club member Alex Jimenez of Lake in the Hills, 20, was a member of the club throughout his four years in high school at Crystal Lake South and has joined the rowing club at Northwestern University, where he is entering his third year. Over the summers since aging out of the club, Jimenez likes to help out by attending practices and teaching a newer generation of rowers. "They pick it up really quickly. This is a really good group. They're good at motivating each other," he said, noting that the turnout among potential newer members is a little smaller than in years past due to the pandemic. "We're all very hopeful looking forward," he added, looking forward to competing in the US Rowing national competition in May. In the two years Jiminez has been helping out since going to college, he has seen formerly new members Gavin Kempf-Kutemeier and Rhianna Petersen, both 15 and of Crystal Lake, mature as rowers and become leaders in the club. "They really are model rowers," he said of Kempf-Kutemeier and Petersen. Staying active with the group has helped Jiminez as well. "It makes me feel like I've done good. Like I've helped people find a new sport." The club is open to youth in grades 8 through 12 and is always looking for new talent among interested athletes. This week's clinic continues Thursday, but another clinic is scheduled for next week on Aug. 11 through 13 from 6 am to 8 am and costs $150 for the three-day session with a limit of 8 participants per session. No experience is required but participants must be able to tread water for 10 minutes without assistance, and masks must be worn on land to comply with state guidelines.

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Members of the Crystal Lake Rowing Club Juniors head back to the dock after a clinic for potential new members on Crystal Lake on Wednesday, Aug. 5, 2020 in Crystal Lake. Though competitions have been canceled through 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the team is able to continue practices as a low-risk sport, with manditory masks worn on land. "It was really fun," said Ellyn Grigson of Barrington, 14. "It's not something you can pick up like that. It takes some practice." Grigson is one of four potential new members who attended Wednesday's clinic and has been boating before but the sport of rowing is new to her. "It wasn't really too hard. I really like boating," she added. Rowing instructor and former club member Alex Jimenez of Lake in the Hills, 20, was a member of the club throughout his four years in high school at Crystal Lake South and has joined the rowing club at Northwestern University, where he is entering his third year. Over the summers since aging out of the club, Jimenez likes to help out by attending practices and teaching a newer generation of rowers. "They pick it up really quickly. This is a really good group. They're good at motivating each other," he said, noting that the turnout among potential newer members is a little smaller than in years past due to the pandemic. "We're all very hopeful looking forward," he added, looking forward to competing in the US Rowing national competition in May. In the two years Jiminez has been helping out since going to college, he has seen formerly new members Gavin Kempf-Kutemeier and Rhianna Petersen, both 15 and of Crystal Lake, mature as rowers and become leaders in the club. "They really are model rowers," he said of Kempf-Kutemeier and Petersen. Staying active with the group has helped Jiminez as well. "It makes me feel like I've done good. Like I've helped people find a new sport." The club is open to youth in grades 8 through 12 and is always looking for new talent among interested athletes. This week's clinic continues Thursday, but another clinic is scheduled for next week on Aug. 11 through 13 from 6 am to 8 am and costs $150 for the three-day session with a limit of 8 participants per session. No experience is required but participants must be able to tread water for 10 minutes without assistance, and masks must be worn on land to comply with state guidelines.

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Members of the Crystal Lake Rowing Club Juniors help four potential new members learn the sport during a clinic on Crystal Lake on Wednesday, Aug. 5, 2020 in Crystal Lake. Though competitions have been canceled through 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the team is able to continue practices as a low-risk sport, with manditory masks worn on land. "It was really fun," said Ellyn Grigson of Barrington, 14. "It's not something you can pick up like that. It takes some practice." Grigson is one of four potential new members who attended Wednesday's clinic and has been boating before but the sport of rowing is new to her. "It wasn't really too hard. I really like boating," she added. Rowing instructor and former club member Alex Jimenez of Lake in the Hills, 20, was a member of the club throughout his four years in high school at Crystal Lake South and has joined the rowing club at Northwestern University, where he is entering his third year. Over the summers since aging out of the club, Jimenez likes to help out by attending practices and teaching a newer generation of rowers. "They pick it up really quickly. This is a really good group. They're good at motivating each other," he said, noting that the turnout among potential newer members is a little smaller than in years past due to the pandemic. "We're all very hopeful looking forward," he added, looking forward to competing in the US Rowing national competition in May. In the two years Jiminez has been helping out since going to college, he has seen formerly new members Gavin Kempf-Kutemeier and Rhianna Petersen, both 15 and of Crystal Lake, mature as rowers and become leaders in the club. "They really are model rowers," he said of Kempf-Kutemeier and Petersen. Staying active with the group has helped Jiminez as well. "It makes me feel like I've done good. Like I've helped people find a new sport." The club is open to youth in grades 8 through 12 and is always looking for new talent among interested athletes. This week's clinic continues Thursday, but another clinic is scheduled for next week on Aug. 11 through 13 from 6 am to 8 am and costs $150 for the three-day session with a limit of 8 participants per session. No experience is required but participants must be able to tread water for 10 minutes without assistance, and masks must be worn on land to comply with state guidelines.

hnews_0805_CL_Rowers

Alex Jimenez of Lake in the Hills, 20, watches over members of the Crystal Lake Rowing Club Juniors and four potential new members as they learn the sport during a clinic on Crystal Lake during a clinic for the Crystal Lake Rowing Club Juniors on Crystal Lake on Wednesday, Aug. 5, 2020 in Crystal Lake. Though competitions have been canceled through 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the team is able to continue practices as a low-risk sport, with manditory masks worn on land. "It was really fun," said Ellyn Grigson of Barrington, 14. "It's not something you can pick up like that. It takes some practice." Grigson is one of four potential new members who attended Wednesday's clinic and has been boating before but the sport of rowing is new to her. "It wasn't really too hard. I really like boating," she added. Rowing instructor and former club member Alex Jimenez of Lake in the Hills, 20, was a member of the club throughout his four years in high school at Crystal Lake South and has joined the rowing club at Northwestern University, where he is entering his third year. Over the summers since aging out of the club, Jimenez likes to help out by attending practices and teaching a newer generation of rowers. "They pick it up really quickly. This is a really good group. They're good at motivating each other," he said, noting that the turnout among potential newer members is a little smaller than in years past due to the pandemic. "We're all very hopeful looking forward," he added, looking forward to competing in the US Rowing national competition in May. In the two years Jiminez has been helping out since going to college, he has seen formerly new members Gavin Kempf-Kutemeier and Rhianna Petersen, both 15 and of Crystal Lake, mature as rowers and become leaders in the club. "They really are model rowers," he said of Kempf-Kutemeier and Petersen. Staying active with the group has helped Jiminez as well. "It makes me feel like I've done good. Like I've helped people find a new sport." The club is open to youth in grades 8 through 12 and is always looking for new talent among interested athletes. This week's clinic continues Thursday, but another clinic is scheduled for next week on Aug. 11 through 13 from 6 am to 8 am and costs $150 for the three-day session with a limit of 8 participants per session. No experience is required but participants must be able to tread water for 10 minutes without assistance, and masks must be worn on land to comply with state guidelines.

hnews_0805_CL_Rowers

Abbey Zaletel of Lakewood, 14, calls out instruction for potential new members during a clinic for the Crystal Lake Rowing Club Juniors on Crystal Lake on Wednesday, Aug. 5, 2020 in Crystal Lake. Though competitions have been canceled through 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the team is able to continue practices as a low-risk sport, with manditory masks worn on land. "It was really fun," said Ellyn Grigson of Barrington, 14. "It's not something you can pick up like that. It takes some practice." Grigson is one of four potential new members who attended Wednesday's clinic and has been boating before but the sport of rowing is new to her. "It wasn't really too hard. I really like boating," she added. Rowing instructor and former club member Alex Jimenez of Lake in the Hills, 20, was a member of the club throughout his four years in high school at Crystal Lake South and has joined the rowing club at Northwestern University, where he is entering his third year. Over the summers since aging out of the club, Jimenez likes to help out by attending practices and teaching a newer generation of rowers. "They pick it up really quickly. This is a really good group. They're good at motivating each other," he said, noting that the turnout among potential newer members is a little smaller than in years past due to the pandemic. "We're all very hopeful looking forward," he added, looking forward to competing in the US Rowing national competition in May. In the two years Jiminez has been helping out since going to college, he has seen formerly new members Gavin Kempf-Kutemeier and Rhianna Petersen, both 15 and of Crystal Lake, mature as rowers and become leaders in the club. "They really are model rowers," he said of Kempf-Kutemeier and Petersen. Staying active with the group has helped Jiminez as well. "It makes me feel like I've done good. Like I've helped people find a new sport." The club is open to youth in grades 8 through 12 and is always looking for new talent among interested athletes. This week's clinic continues Thursday, but another clinic is scheduled for next week on Aug. 11 through 13 from 6 am to 8 am and costs $150 for the three-day session with a limit of 8 participants per session. No experience is required but participants must be able to tread water for 10 minutes without assistance, and masks must be worn on land to comply with state guidelines.

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Gavin Kempf-Kutemeier of Crystal Lake, left, and Brey Stacoviak of Woodstock, both 15, wear smiles as they row in the first and second seats, respectively, during a clinic for the Crystal Lake Rowing Club Juniors on Crystal Lake on Wednesday, Aug. 5, 2020 in Crystal Lake. Though competitions have been canceled through 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the team is able to continue practices as a low-risk sport, with manditory masks worn on land. "It was really fun," said Ellyn Grigson of Barrington, 14. "It's not something you can pick up like that. It takes some practice." Grigson is one of four potential new members who attended Wednesday's clinic and has been boating before but the sport of rowing is new to her. "It wasn't really too hard. I really like boating," she added. Rowing instructor and former club member Alex Jimenez of Lake in the Hills, 20, was a member of the club throughout his four years in high school at Crystal Lake South and has joined the rowing club at Northwestern University, where he is entering his third year. Over the summers since aging out of the club, Jimenez likes to help out by attending practices and teaching a newer generation of rowers. "They pick it up really quickly. This is a really good group. They're good at motivating each other," he said, noting that the turnout among potential newer members is a little smaller than in years past due to the pandemic. "We're all very hopeful looking forward," he added, looking forward to competing in the US Rowing national competition in May. In the two years Jiminez has been helping out since going to college, he has seen formerly new members Gavin Kempf-Kutemeier and Rhianna Petersen, both 15 and of Crystal Lake, mature as rowers and become leaders in the club. "They really are model rowers," he said of Kempf-Kutemeier and Petersen. Staying active with the group has helped Jiminez as well. "It makes me feel like I've done good. Like I've helped people find a new sport." The club is open to youth in grades 8 through 12 and is always looking for new talent among interested athletes. This week's clinic continues Thursday, but another clinic is scheduled for next week on Aug. 11 through 13 from 6 am to 8 am and costs $150 for the three-day session with a limit of 8 participants per session. No experience is required but participants must be able to tread water for 10 minutes without assistance, and masks must be worn on land to comply with state guidelines.

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From left: Megan Laird of Lake in the Hills, 15, Ellyn Grigson of Barrington, 14, Anna Borg of Crystal Lake, 14, Scarlett Quinn of Crystal Lake, 15, and Abbey Zaletel of Lakewood, 14, practice during a clinic for the Crystal Lake Rowing Club Juniors on Crystal Lake on Wednesday, Aug. 5, 2020 in Crystal Lake. Though competitions have been canceled through 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the team is able to continue practices as a low-risk sport, with manditory masks worn on land. "It was really fun," said Ellyn Grigson of Barrington, 14. "It's not something you can pick up like that. It takes some practice." Grigson is one of four potential new members who attended Wednesday's clinic and has been boating before but the sport of rowing is new to her. "It wasn't really too hard. I really like boating," she added. Rowing instructor and former club member Alex Jimenez of Lake in the Hills, 20, was a member of the club throughout his four years in high school at Crystal Lake South and has joined the rowing club at Northwestern University, where he is entering his third year. Over the summers since aging out of the club, Jimenez likes to help out by attending practices and teaching a newer generation of rowers. "They pick it up really quickly. This is a really good group. They're good at motivating each other," he said, noting that the turnout among potential newer members is a little smaller than in years past due to the pandemic. "We're all very hopeful looking forward," he added, looking forward to competing in the US Rowing national competition in May. In the two years Jiminez has been helping out since going to college, he has seen formerly new members Gavin Kempf-Kutemeier and Rhianna Petersen, both 15 and of Crystal Lake, mature as rowers and become leaders in the club. "They really are model rowers," he said of Kempf-Kutemeier and Petersen. Staying active with the group has helped Jiminez as well. "It makes me feel like I've done good. Like I've helped people find a new sport." The club is open to youth in grades 8 through 12 and is always looking for new talent among interested athletes. This week's clinic continues Thursday, but another clinic is scheduled for next week on Aug. 11 through 13 from 6 am to 8 am and costs $150 for the three-day session with a limit of 8 participants per session. No experience is required but participants must be able to tread water for 10 minutes without assistance, and masks must be worn on land to comply with state guidelines.

hnews_0805_CL_Rowers

Brey Stacoviak of Woodstock, 15, sprays down the boat with sanitizer after use during a clinic for the Crystal Lake Rowing Club Juniors on Crystal Lake on Wednesday, Aug. 5, 2020 in Crystal Lake. Though competitions have been canceled through 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the team is able to continue practices as a low-risk sport, with manditory masks worn on land. "It was really fun," said Ellyn Grigson of Barrington, 14. "It's not something you can pick up like that. It takes some practice." Grigson is one of four potential new members who attended Wednesday's clinic and has been boating before but the sport of rowing is new to her. "It wasn't really too hard. I really like boating," she added. Rowing instructor and former club member Alex Jimenez of Lake in the Hills, 20, was a member of the club throughout his four years in high school at Crystal Lake South and has joined the rowing club at Northwestern University, where he is entering his third year. Over the summers since aging out of the club, Jimenez likes to help out by attending practices and teaching a newer generation of rowers. "They pick it up really quickly. This is a really good group. They're good at motivating each other," he said, noting that the turnout among potential newer members is a little smaller than in years past due to the pandemic. "We're all very hopeful looking forward," he added, looking forward to competing in the US Rowing national competition in May. In the two years Jiminez has been helping out since going to college, he has seen formerly new members Gavin Kempf-Kutemeier and Rhianna Petersen, both 15 and of Crystal Lake, mature as rowers and become leaders in the club. "They really are model rowers," he said of Kempf-Kutemeier and Petersen. Staying active with the group has helped Jiminez as well. "It makes me feel like I've done good. Like I've helped people find a new sport." The club is open to youth in grades 8 through 12 and is always looking for new talent among interested athletes. This week's clinic continues Thursday, but another clinic is scheduled for next week on Aug. 11 through 13 from 6 am to 8 am and costs $150 for the three-day session with a limit of 8 participants per session. No experience is required but participants must be able to tread water for 10 minutes without assistance, and masks must be worn on land to comply with state guidelines.

hnews_0805_CL_Rowers

Members of the Crystal Lake Rowing Club Juniors help four potential new members learn the sport during a clinic on Crystal Lake on Wednesday, Aug. 5, 2020 in Crystal Lake. Though competitions have been canceled through 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the team is able to continue practices as a low-risk sport, with manditory masks worn on land. "It was really fun," said Ellyn Grigson of Barrington, 14. "It's not something you can pick up like that. It takes some practice." Grigson is one of four potential new members who attended Wednesday's clinic and has been boating before but the sport of rowing is new to her. "It wasn't really too hard. I really like boating," she added. Rowing instructor and former club member Alex Jimenez of Lake in the Hills, 20, was a member of the club throughout his four years in high school at Crystal Lake South and has joined the rowing club at Northwestern University, where he is entering his third year. Over the summers since aging out of the club, Jimenez likes to help out by attending practices and teaching a newer generation of rowers. "They pick it up really quickly. This is a really good group. They're good at motivating each other," he said, noting that the turnout among potential newer members is a little smaller than in years past due to the pandemic. "We're all very hopeful looking forward," he added, looking forward to competing in the US Rowing national competition in May. In the two years Jiminez has been helping out since going to college, he has seen formerly new members Gavin Kempf-Kutemeier and Rhianna Petersen, both 15 and of Crystal Lake, mature as rowers and become leaders in the club. "They really are model rowers," he said of Kempf-Kutemeier and Petersen. Staying active with the group has helped Jiminez as well. "It makes me feel like I've done good. Like I've helped people find a new sport." The club is open to youth in grades 8 through 12 and is always looking for new talent among interested athletes. This week's clinic continues Thursday, but another clinic is scheduled for next week on Aug. 11 through 13 from 6 am to 8 am and costs $150 for the three-day session with a limit of 8 participants per session. No experience is required but participants must be able to tread water for 10 minutes without assistance, and masks must be worn on land to comply with state guidelines.

hnews_0805_CL_Rowers

Members of the Crystal Lake Rowing Club Juniors load their boat back into the Kamijima Park Boathouse after a clinic for potential new memebrs on Wednesday, Aug. 5, 2020 in Crystal Lake. Though competitions have been canceled through 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the team is able to continue practices as a low-risk sport, with manditory masks worn on land. "It was really fun," said Ellyn Grigson of Barrington, 14. "It's not something you can pick up like that. It takes some practice." Grigson is one of four potential new members who attended Wednesday's clinic and has been boating before but the sport of rowing is new to her. "It wasn't really too hard. I really like boating," she added. Rowing instructor and former club member Alex Jimenez of Lake in the Hills, 20, was a member of the club throughout his four years in high school at Crystal Lake South and has joined the rowing club at Northwestern University, where he is entering his third year. Over the summers since aging out of the club, Jimenez likes to help out by attending practices and teaching a newer generation of rowers. "They pick it up really quickly. This is a really good group. They're good at motivating each other," he said, noting that the turnout among potential newer members is a little smaller than in years past due to the pandemic. "We're all very hopeful looking forward," he added, looking forward to competing in the US Rowing national competition in May. In the two years Jiminez has been helping out since going to college, he has seen formerly new members Gavin Kempf-Kutemeier and Rhianna Petersen, both 15 and of Crystal Lake, mature as rowers and become leaders in the club. "They really are model rowers," he said of Kempf-Kutemeier and Petersen. Staying active with the group has helped Jiminez as well. "It makes me feel like I've done good. Like I've helped people find a new sport." The club is open to youth in grades 8 through 12 and is always looking for new talent among interested athletes. This week's clinic continues Thursday, but another clinic is scheduled for next week on Aug. 11 through 13 from 6 am to 8 am and costs $150 for the three-day session with a limit of 8 participants per session. No experience is required but participants must be able to tread water for 10 minutes without assistance, and masks must be worn on land to comply with state guidelines.

hnews_0805_CL_Rowers

Ryan Flynn, 13, left, and Marlee Cox, 12, both of Crystal Lake, practice with the Crystal Lake Rowing Club Juniors during a clinic for potential new members on Wednesday, Aug. 5, 2020 on Crystal Lake in Crystal Lake. Though competitions have been canceled through 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the team is able to continue practices as a low-risk sport, with manditory masks worn on land. "It was really fun," said Ellyn Grigson of Barrington, 14. "It's not something you can pick up like that. It takes some practice." Grigson is one of four potential new members who attended Wednesday's clinic and has been boating before but the sport of rowing is new to her. "It wasn't really too hard. I really like boating," she added. Rowing instructor and former club member Alex Jimenez of Lake in the Hills, 20, was a member of the club throughout his four years in high school at Crystal Lake South and has joined the rowing club at Northwestern University, where he is entering his third year. Over the summers since aging out of the club, Jimenez likes to help out by attending practices and teaching a newer generation of rowers. "They pick it up really quickly. This is a really good group. They're good at motivating each other," he said, noting that the turnout among potential newer members is a little smaller than in years past due to the pandemic. "We're all very hopeful looking forward," he added, looking forward to competing in the US Rowing national competition in May. In the two years Jiminez has been helping out since going to college, he has seen formerly new members Gavin Kempf-Kutemeier and Rhianna Petersen, both 15 and of Crystal Lake, mature as rowers and become leaders in the club. "They really are model rowers," he said of Kempf-Kutemeier and Petersen. Staying active with the group has helped Jiminez as well. "It makes me feel like I've done good. Like I've helped people find a new sport." The club is open to youth in grades 8 through 12 and is always looking for new talent among interested athletes. This week's clinic continues Thursday, but another clinic is scheduled for next week on Aug. 11 through 13 from 6 am to 8 am and costs $150 for the three-day session with a limit of 8 participants per session. No experience is required but participants must be able to tread water for 10 minutes without assistance, and masks must be worn on land to comply with state guidelines.

hnews_0805_CL_Rowers

Alex Jimenez of Lake in the Hills, 20, calls out instruction for members of the Crystal Lake Rowing Club Juniors and four potential new members as they learn the sport during a clinic on Crystal Lake during a clinic for the Crystal Lake Rowing Club Juniors on Crystal Lake on Wednesday, Aug. 5, 2020 in Crystal Lake. Though competitions have been canceled through 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the team is able to continue practices as a low-risk sport, with manditory masks worn on land. "It was really fun," said Ellyn Grigson of Barrington, 14. "It's not something you can pick up like that. It takes some practice." Grigson is one of four potential new members who attended Wednesday's clinic and has been boating before but the sport of rowing is new to her. "It wasn't really too hard. I really like boating," she added. Rowing instructor and former club member Alex Jimenez of Lake in the Hills, 20, was a member of the club throughout his four years in high school at Crystal Lake South and has joined the rowing club at Northwestern University, where he is entering his third year. Over the summers since aging out of the club, Jimenez likes to help out by attending practices and teaching a newer generation of rowers. "They pick it up really quickly. This is a really good group. They're good at motivating each other," he said, noting that the turnout among potential newer members is a little smaller than in years past due to the pandemic. "We're all very hopeful looking forward," he added, looking forward to competing in the US Rowing national competition in May. In the two years Jiminez has been helping out since going to college, he has seen formerly new members Gavin Kempf-Kutemeier and Rhianna Petersen, both 15 and of Crystal Lake, mature as rowers and become leaders in the club. "They really are model rowers," he said of Kempf-Kutemeier and Petersen. Staying active with the group has helped Jiminez as well. "It makes me feel like I've done good. Like I've helped people find a new sport." The club is open to youth in grades 8 through 12 and is always looking for new talent among interested athletes. This week's clinic continues Thursday, but another clinic is scheduled for next week on Aug. 11 through 13 from 6 am to 8 am and costs $150 for the three-day session with a limit of 8 participants per session. No experience is required but participants must be able to tread water for 10 minutes without assistance, and masks must be worn on land to comply with state guidelines.

hnews_0805_CL_Rowers

Crystal Lake Rowing Club Juniors members return their oars to the Kamijima Park Boathouse after a clinic for potential new members on Crystal Lake on Wednesday, Aug. 5, 2020 in Crystal Lake. Though competitions have been canceled through 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the team is able to continue practices as a low-risk sport, with manditory masks worn on land. "It was really fun," said Ellyn Grigson of Barrington, 14. "It's not something you can pick up like that. It takes some practice." Grigson is one of four potential new members who attended Wednesday's clinic and has been boating before but the sport of rowing is new to her. "It wasn't really too hard. I really like boating," she added. Rowing instructor and former club member Alex Jimenez of Lake in the Hills, 20, was a member of the club throughout his four years in high school at Crystal Lake South and has joined the rowing club at Northwestern University, where he is entering his third year. Over the summers since aging out of the club, Jimenez likes to help out by attending practices and teaching a newer generation of rowers. "They pick it up really quickly. This is a really good group. They're good at motivating each other," he said, noting that the turnout among potential newer members is a little smaller than in years past due to the pandemic. "We're all very hopeful looking forward," he added, looking forward to competing in the US Rowing national competition in May. In the two years Jiminez has been helping out since going to college, he has seen formerly new members Gavin Kempf-Kutemeier and Rhianna Petersen, both 15 and of Crystal Lake, mature as rowers and become leaders in the club. "They really are model rowers," he said of Kempf-Kutemeier and Petersen. Staying active with the group has helped Jiminez as well. "It makes me feel like I've done good. Like I've helped people find a new sport." The club is open to youth in grades 8 through 12 and is always looking for new talent among interested athletes. This week's clinic continues Thursday, but another clinic is scheduled for next week on Aug. 11 through 13 from 6 am to 8 am and costs $150 for the three-day session with a limit of 8 participants per session. No experience is required but participants must be able to tread water for 10 minutes without assistance, and masks must be worn on land to comply with state guidelines.

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Members of the Crystal Lake Rowing Club Juniors help four potential new members learn the sport during a clinic on Crystal Lake on Wednesday, Aug. 5, 2020 in Crystal Lake. Though competitions have been canceled through 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the team is able to continue practices as a low-risk sport, with manditory masks worn on land. "It was really fun," said Ellyn Grigson of Barrington, 14. "It's not something you can pick up like that. It takes some practice." Grigson is one of four potential new members who attended Wednesday's clinic and has been boating before but the sport of rowing is new to her. "It wasn't really too hard. I really like boating," she added. Rowing instructor and former club member Alex Jimenez of Lake in the Hills, 20, was a member of the club throughout his four years in high school at Crystal Lake South and has joined the rowing club at Northwestern University, where he is entering his third year. Over the summers since aging out of the club, Jimenez likes to help out by attending practices and teaching a newer generation of rowers. "They pick it up really quickly. This is a really good group. They're good at motivating each other," he said, noting that the turnout among potential newer members is a little smaller than in years past due to the pandemic. "We're all very hopeful looking forward," he added, looking forward to competing in the US Rowing national competition in May. In the two years Jiminez has been helping out since going to college, he has seen formerly new members Gavin Kempf-Kutemeier and Rhianna Petersen, both 15 and of Crystal Lake, mature as rowers and become leaders in the club. "They really are model rowers," he said of Kempf-Kutemeier and Petersen. Staying active with the group has helped Jiminez as well. "It makes me feel like I've done good. Like I've helped people find a new sport." The club is open to youth in grades 8 through 12 and is always looking for new talent among interested athletes. This week's clinic continues Thursday, but another clinic is scheduled for next week on Aug. 11 through 13 from 6 am to 8 am and costs $150 for the three-day session with a limit of 8 participants per session. No experience is required but participants must be able to tread water for 10 minutes without assistance, and masks must be worn on land to comply with state guidelines.