ORU's Mission
ORU Mission Statement
Oregon Rowing Unlimited (ORU) is a non-profit 501 c (3) organization, formed in 1988 to promote the sport of rowing in the State of Oregon. It accomplishes this mission by establishing facilities, procuring and maintaining equipment, developing programs especially for the youth of the community and presenting events to showcase the sport.
ORU History
ORU has helped develop or promote almost every rowing club in the greater Portland area and some outside the metropolitan area. ORU is pleased to have established one of the finest youth programs in the country. Many of our students go on to become national and international athletes. Over 98 percent of our high school athletes matriculate into college and most get help because of their connections to crew. ORU has also helped blind people to experience the thrill and teamwork involved with crew. Independent scullers, college crews and masters clubs are also beneficiaries of ORU and its mission. Due to a great long-term relationship with Oaks Park, ORU has been able to expand its boathouse facilities, as demand required. ORU has also presented the Portland LO/OP Regatta as its showcase event to the community since 1988. This nationally recognized event has been host to many excellent college teams as well as juniors and masters clubs.
ORU Philosophy
ORU believes that life skills can be taught through sports, especially as they relate to crew. Teamwork, reliability, goal setting and achievement are necessary to succeed both on and off the water. The earlier a student develops these transferable skills the better. Champions are first created in the mind, then by word and then by deed. Results show intentions, so let us row on to our highest and best.
ORU Future
ORU will continue to create and nurture crew clubs that want to enjoy this fine sport at every level. ORU will continue emphasizing high school programs in hopes that rowers can enjoy this sport for their entire lives. The best way to predict the future is to create it!