Year 9-10
In the Junior Squad (J13s and J14s), there is a competitive sculling focus. Athletes are encouraged to participate in various J13 and J14 head races and regattas. Rowers are selected for crews based on a selection criteria that looks at their ability to move small boats, their technical ability and their physical ability.
Here the emphasis is again on fun, but also incorporating competitive work geared towards the events that they compete in. Technique and basic rowing fitness continue to be built on from the previous year. Juniors race a number of Head Races and Regattas throughout the season.
The main rowing sessions are on Monday and Wednesday afternoon and Saturday mornings. They are also encouraged to attend at least two weekday sessions (days to be confirmed) which helps develop technique on the ergo machines which can then be applied to the Saturday session. These sessions, while fun, are geared towards developing core stability, flexibility and endurance, characteristics that are vital for rowing.
Year 11-12
In the J15 and J16 age groups, a full competitive program is introduced where rowers are able to compete in various Head Races and Regattas. Any athlete who is in the J15 squad is eligible for selection to boats in the J16 and senior age group. This will ensure that, should they be excelling in the sport, they will be able to thrive with those of a similar ability. Weights training sessions are introduced on a Tuesday and Thursday morning and these over the past few years have proved essential to athlete development and success on the water.
At this age group places in boats are extremely competitive and it is essential that all athletes attend the following sessions:
Monday – 3:45 pm – 5:15pm
Tuesday – 6:45am – 8am & 3:45pm – 5:15pm
Wednesday – 3:45pm –-5:15pm
Thursday – 6:45am – 8am & 3:45pm -5:15pm
Friday – Off
Saturday – 9am – 12:30pm
Sunday – Off
Year 13 – 14
Small boat rowing is vital to the success of any senior rower at Portora. Running, ergometers, circuit work and weight training (only under strict supervision) all contribute to allowing athletes to attain high standards of racing. Portora Senior boats are selected very carefully with regard to what events would most benefit the rowers for the various events we compete at throughout the year. Rowers have the opportunity to attend the various Irish rowing assessment and trial weekends throughout the year, where, if they prove to be successful, they may represent Ireland at either the World Junior Championships, the Coupe de la Jeunesse, or the Home Countries Regatta (England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales).
For rowers aspiring to the junior Irish team, there is obviously a much greater demand on time and training. An Irish Selection standard has to be met before any athlete is put forward for Irish trials.
Monday – 3:45pm – 5:15pm
Tuesday – 6:45am – 8am & 3:45pm – 5:15pm
Wednesday – 3:45pm – 5:15pm
Thursday – 6:45am – 8am & 3:45pm – 5:15pm
Friday – 3:45pm – 5:15pm
Saturday – 9am – 12:30pm
Sunday – occasional sessions
