Participants in last year’s oncology rowing program.
The Lake Lanier Rowing Club is once again offering a free 12-week indoor learn-to-row program created specifically for members of the Northeast Georgia oncology community.
Beginning in mid-January 2026, the program will build on the success of its 2025 inaugural class, which graduated 29 participants representing a diverse group of patients, survivors, family supporters, and medical professionals.
“Our entire club is excited to introduce the many physical and mental benefits of rowing to individuals and families in our community impacted by cancer,” said Howell Buot, Executive Director of the Lake Lanier Rowing Club. “The overwhelming success of our first year brought new energy and inspiration to the boathouse each week and fostered friendships that continue well beyond our April graduation.”
The program, called SURVIVErg, blends the words Survive and Erg (the shortened form of ergometer, the indoor rowing machine that replicates on-water rowing).
Weekly sessions are led by LLRC volunteers under the guidance of Buot and 63-year-old program lead Dan Lynch, a former indoor rowing world-record holder and cancer survivor. “As someone who depended on indoor rowing to stay strong and motivated during and after treatment for Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, I wanted to help others experience the benefits rowing can offer,” said Lynch. “It’s not just about managing fatigue and other physical side-effects – it’s also about the mental and social lift that comes from joining others in something fun, positive, challenging, and engaging.”
Based on participant feedback, the program features 90-minute sessions offered at least twice per week. Participants may attend one or both sessions, and no prior experience is required. The program is open to anyone affected by cancer: patients, survivors, caregivers, family members, and medical professionals. LLRC will also provide reasonable accommodations for individuals with special needs.
While SURVIVErg remains free for 2026, space is limited. A signed waiver and a one-time $5 registration fee are required to secure a reservation, and enrollment is first-come, first-served. Participants currently undergoing treatment are encouraged to consult their physician or oncologist.
Online registration is now open. Classes begin Tuesday, January 13, 2026, and Thursday, January 15, 2026, from 4-5:30, running continuously through the first week of April. Additional open-row opportunities will be offered throughout the three-month program.
For more information email surviverg@lakelanierrowing.org or visit www.LakeLanierRowing.org.
Photo: courtesy LLRC
