Rowing Makes Unified5K History in Hyannis
- 6 days ago
- 2 min read
Something shifted at this year's Unified5K in Hyannis, Massachusetts. Quietly, but meaningfully.
When AdaptX approached the Para Rowing Foundation (PRF) about adding indoor rowing to their event, the answer was simple: yes. What followed were two firsts that signal something bigger about the future of sport.
For the first time, a Unified5K event took place in Hyannis, Massachusetts. And for the first time in the event's history, it welcomed not just runners and wheelchair users, but rowers too.
One Start Line. Every Body.
Para Rowing Foundation set up accessible rowing machines right next to the start line. Not to the side. Not in a separate space. Right there, at the heart of the action, so that when the race began, everyone began together.
Runners, rollers and rowers. Side by side. Part of the same energy, the same moment, the same race.
This is what sport looks like when it is designed with every body in mind.
The People Who Made It Happen
Events like this do not happen without the right people showing up. Enormous credit goes to Brendan Aylward and the AdaptX team for the vision to ask the question in the first place. To Jeff Soares and Coach Dante from Watuppa Rowing Center, who arrived with brand new rowing machines, deep expertise and, by all accounts, very welcome hot coffee. To PRF specialist coaches William Mwanga and Jenny Sichel PLY for their coaching on the day, and to Taylor Hughey, Mary Beth Amrine and Katie for their vital ground support. To Sturgis West Charter School for their involvement. And to Kent, the service dog who quietly stole the show.
Part of Something Larger
This event formed part of the Move United conference, one of the most important gatherings in adaptive sport. It was a powerful, practical demonstration of what PRF exists to do: remove barriers, expand access, and show what becomes possible when rowing opens its doors.
There will be more of this to come.
Curious about what para rowing could look like at your club or event? Reach out to Marilyn Koblan, Co Founder, or Steven Dowd, Executive Chair. Or contact PRF through the button below.
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