Riverside Boat Club is a non-profit rowing organization that provides both sweep rowing and sculling for members.The Club
does not duplicate the efforts of the many quality learn-to-row programs on the river, but it provides programs in sweeps and sculling
for all other rowing abilities - recreational rowers through international competitors.Beyond basic rowing skills, our only
qualification for membership is service to the club.All members are required to attend work parties, help with regattas and perform
other committee work
Founded in 1869 by immigrant Irish workers from the Riverside Press, Riverside Boat Club was originally located at the foot of
Albro Street, between River St. and Western Ave.A second boathouse followed shortly but was burned beyond repair in 1911.
Riverside relocated and rebuilt at its current site, then known as Captain’s Island, to make room for Memorial Drive.Always proud
of its humble beginnings, news clippings from the 1920’s boast of the club’s lack of higher education in its ranks.They were
carpenters, brick layers and printers...and they were winning races!
From the beginning, Riverside’s hallmark has been racing.Riverside scullers were nationally ranked soon after the club’s founding,
and the club’s first team-boat national title was won in 1894.In 1936, Riverside earned the right to represent the US in the “four-
with” at the Olympics.Since then, many athletes have temporarily traded their blue and white stripes for red, white and blue blades
of the US team to compete in World Championship regattas and the Olympic Games.But just as important, Riverside continues to
be a dominant force in the club and masters racing circuit as well.
The one constant at Riverside through our 130+-year history is that the involvement of the membership defines the club.All
management and running of the club is by volunteer effort.Hundreds of people have worked to achieve Riverside’s goal of
affordable, quality rowing at all levels.We welcome new members who will continue the traditions of Riverside.
Membership Information
Application Process
Riverside Boat Club is a 501(c)3 charitable organization that strives to provide quality, affordable rowing for its membership.The
main requirements for membership are that applicants possess competent rowing skills, and accept the club’s conduct and financial
responsibilities. Riverside Boat Club accepts members without regard to race, gender, age or religious affiliation.
Membership information can be obtained by contacting the Vice President or designee at memberhip@riversideboatclub.com.The
membership process is as follows:
Attend a 90-minute orientation that provides an overview of the club and discusses what is expected of members.Please note,
membership numbers and participation levels vary.We may have a hold on membership until space allows.
Submit a membership application, sign the Dues Refund Policy and Indemnification Statement and submit with the non-refundable
Initiation fee.If at any time you let your membership lapse, you will be expected to complete the membership process again,
including payment of the application fee, to re-join the club.(Membership may be kept active by dropping to Supporting
membership, and
reinstatement to an active membership is allowed upon payment of full dues.Members who do so may revert back to the Senior or
Provisional status that they had attained before becoming supporting members).
Participate in a work party.Riverside depends on its members to clean, garden, wash boats, and perform routine boathouse
maintenance.Your best way to meet other members is to roll up your sleeves and get to work!And it is mandatory that you
participate in a work party prior to standing up for membership.Work party dates should be available at orientation.
Attend a monthly Membership Committee meeting to be cleared for membership, pay your dues and get a key.
Come to the next Quarterly meeting of the membership to be formally voted in by the membership.Please note, this step needs to
be completed by the second Quarterly membership meeting following clearance by the membership committee, or your membership
may be suspended.
You are voted in as a Provisional member.Provisional, Family, Senior and Life members are required to complete 10 work party
hours per year, and participate with a committee to remain in good standing.
After one year as a member in good standing, Provisional members may apply for Senior Membership which affords voting
privileges and leadership opportunities.
Classes of Membership
All members, except Supporting members, must fulfill the requirements of membership, including prompt payment of dues,
completing annual work party hours, participating on a committee, attending the Quarterly membership meetings and complying with
the rules, guidelines and bylaws set forth in this handbook and the river rules, dictated by the River Users Committee.
A Provisional member has use of the club facilities, but may not vote at the Quarterly membership meetings.
A Senior member has full voting privilege and use of the club facilities. The requirements to become a Senior member are: being a
provisional member in good standing for at least one year and receiving an affirmative vote at a Quarterly General Meeting.
Family membership. Any Senior or Provisional member with a spouse or with a child(ren) under age of 18, or 22 if a full-time
student, with an interest in rowing may apply for a family membership. Each Family member shall be elected by two-thirds vote of
those present at the meeting to which application is made. A Senior member who is part of a Family membership shall retain his/her
right to vote and hold office.
A Junior Membership is forany person under the age of eighteen who may be eligible for election as a junior member after having
been a guest of a senior member for a period of four weeks, provided that a novice at either sweeps or sculls must also log a
minimum of 50 miles of rowing under the supervision of the host member prior to application.
A Supporting member has no vote at the Quarterly Meetings, is not issued a key and use of club boats or facilities may not exceed
seven times per year.
A Life membership may be awarded by the Board to those people who have given outstanding service and contributions to the club
or the sport.
A Program membership is granted to participants in special programs sponsored by the club. A Program member has no vote at the
Quarterly membership meetings and is not issued a key. The scope of membership privileges are determined by the Board and are
voted on by the membership in accordance with the Bylaws.
Volunteer Requirements
Members are required to attend work parties (10 hours per year minimum) and to work on committees or special projects or serve on
the Board of Directors. Members are required to log the time spent in work parties and the job specifics, in a specific location
designated by the Board of Directors.
Meeting Attendance
Members are expected to attend the Quarterly membership meetings usually held on the first Tuesday of March, June and September
and the second Tuesday in November at 7:00pm.
Swimming Requirement
All active members must be able to swim.
Ice Restriction
All members shall comply with rules and regulations set forth by the Local, State or Department of Conservation and Recreation
(DCR) rules against walking, skating or skiing on the frozen river.
Boathouse Security
Members are expected to keep the boathouse secure.
The front door must be kept locked at all times.
Members shall ensure the security of the boathouse by greeting all un-escorted non-members, and either assist them with their
needs or usher them to the door.
Before leaving the dock for a row, the last person on the water must pull the bay doors down and secure the swing dock.
Members rowing after 10am daily must lock the bay doors while on the water.
The last person leaving the boathouse is responsible for turning out the lights and locking all five doors to the water, all
windows, the door to the upstairs porch, and the doors to the street.
Private powerboats are not allowed to stop at the dock, and their occupants are not allowed to pass through the boathouse or
use the boathouse facilities.
Communication
Riverside Boat Club uses email as its primary form of communication. All members are responsible for knowing the information
that is sent via email from the club.These messages may include traffic advisories, notification of restrictions on club boat use, and
other important information.Sign up for the e-list at www.riversideboatclub.com.If the member cannot receive email, they may
access messages from the site.The Club will mail newsletter and invitations to the opening breakfast and holiday party to those
members who request it.
Bicycles
No bicycles are allowed in the boathouse unless in use on rollers upstairs.
Lockers
Lockers are available for an annual fee.All locker users must comply with the standards set forth by the Board of Directors to
identify that their locker fee has been paid.Any locked lockers that do not display the proper designation shall be opened and
emptied of all contents.
Parking
The parking lot between Riverside Boat Club and the Magazine Beach Pool is owned and managed by the State’s Department of
Conservation and Recreation (DCR).Riverside members shall abide by all regular and temporary parking rules and regulations while
using this or any other DCR parking lots.In particular, all wheels must be on the pavement at all times and in designated spaces.
Snow emergency and other parking bans should be observed.Overnight parking is not permitted in the lot.
Riverside members are expected to following the parking rules posted in the store lot across the street and comply with the store
management or site management requests.Failure to respect these rules may jeopardize the club’s relationship with the store
management and the neighborhood and will not be tolerated.
Programs
Sculling
Riverside has several club singles, doubles and quads all in top racing condition.A Captain’s-tested member must bow all blind
boats except the gigs, which may be rowed in preparation for the Captain’s test, with permission from the Captain.Group coaching is
provided up to three sessions per week.
Sweeps
Riverside has both men’s and women’s coached sweep teams.Both are quite competitive and have broad age ranges.Additional
workouts, erg tests and seat races may be required.
High Performance Group (HPG)
The HPG is a year round training program for athletes with National Team aspirations.
Indoor Training
Riverside offers limited indoor training equipment including several ergometers, free-weights and a few weight machines.During
peak seasons (winter), an erg use schedule may be established during peak hours.
Dues and Fees
Members must pay all dues and fees on time to retain the privileges of membership.The Club’s fiscal year runs from January
through December. All continuing membership dues and fees will be billed in January. New member dues and fees are due upon a
prospective member’s clearance by the Membership Committee. Dues, rack fees, locker fees and all other assessments are
determined by the Board of Directors for each fiscal year.
Partial-Year Dues
Those joining between August 31 and November 30 pay half dues. for the remainder of the year.Those joining after November 30
pay a full year’s dues but their membership extends through the next year.If the next year’s dues increase after the new member
joins, the new member is required to pay the difference.
Refund Policy
A member may request a refund of dues for any reason. The amount of the refund will be based on the following guidelines:
For members who paid dues or joined between January 1 and April 30:
50% refund if the request is received before April 30
25% refund if the request is received before May 31
0% refund if the request is received after May 31
For new members paying dues or joining between the December 1 of the previous seasonand August 31:
50% refund if the request is received within 30 days of clearance of membership by the Membership Committee
25% refund if the request is received between 31 to 60 days of clearance of membership by the Membership Committee
0% refund if the request is received after 61 days of clearance of membership by the Membership Committee
For new members joining between September 1 and December 31:
0% refund
Rack fees are refunded on a pro-rated basis.
Refunds will be granted with the understanding that the member is resigning from membership and will immediately vacate his or her
assigned rack space and locker. Anyone wishing to re-join the club who has resigned under these circumstances will be subject to all
the procedures and fees applicable to any prospective new member.
Osborn Scholarship
Established in 2000, Charley Osborn began his rowing career at Brooks, ’73 and Princeton, ‘77 and brought his abundant enthusiasm
to Riverside in 1982.He served as Vice President of the club from 1987 to 1992.From 1992 to 1995, as a Trustee, he led the club
through the strategic challenge of financial independence as Northeastern University crew moved out to its new quarters up river.
Charley loved Riverside.He spent countless hours here out of his love of the people and the sport and to escape from the pressure of
completing his doctorate at Harvard.Unusual for married couples, Lynn and Charley rowed and raced a double.As Charley stood
six foot six and Lynn five foot eight, their boat required creative rigging, but with Linda Muri’s help, they engineered the double (a
wedding present from Charley’s parents) to suit.Lynn enjoyed being pushed around the river by this big guy with a 12-foot stroke.
Hard to imagine today, but in 1983, they were handed a last minute entry in the men’s open double at the Head of the Charles and
proudly finished in the top half of the fleet.With Bob Cutler’s encouragement they raced and won the mixed double event in the
Head of the Schuylkill in 1988.Charley was 33.
At the age of 42, Charley was diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (Lou Gehrig’s Disease), and after four valiant years of
steady atrophy, he died in 2001.
In Charley’s honor, Riverside established the Osborn Scholarship to be awarded annually to a member of Riverside who
demonstrates qualities that most resemble those of Charley - i.e., a commitment to the club through volunteer service; pride of
membership, and good sportsmanship.The scholarship covers one year of membership dues.
Guest Policy
Guests are welcome to use club facilities when accompanied by a member. Guests may use such facilities including weights,
ergometers, lockers, showers, boats and docks. Use of club singles including gigs, by a guest is permissible only with the express
permission of the Captain.
The guest fee for the first three visits is waived, but fees are required for each additional visit. The maximum number of visits per
guest is eight and not to exceed 50 miles. If the guest wishes to continue to use Riverside facilities, they need to pursue membership
at the club.
Riverside members are responsible for:
Timely payment of all guest fees
That guests sign an Indemnification form prior to using boats or facilities
Cost of repair for any damage caused by their guests
Accompanying the guest at all times while using the facility and/or equipment.
Choosing an appropriate boat.Permission of the Captain must be obtained by the host for his/her guest to use any club single
including gigs, to use boats during peak hours, and for inviting more than one guest at a time.
Complying with log book procedures including listing the guests name in appropriate location.
Ensuring that the guest uses Riverside facilities no more than eight times.
Reciprocal Guest Privileges
Visiting members of other clubs recognized by the Board, with which Riverside has reciprocal guest privileges, are not required to
pay fees.These clubs include those based on the Charles River that extend equal privileges to RBC members and the Potomac
Boat Club and may include others at the discretion of the Board.The maximum number of visits per guest still applies, though
permission may be granted by the Captain for extended periods if the member is in turn receiving equal privileges at the
guest's boathouse. In such cases, care should be taken to avoid peak boat use hours. Members of clubs that receive reciprocal
privileges that wish to join Riverside Boat Club may jump to the top of the wait list, if deemed appropriate by the Board.Reciprocal
Guest Privileges may be awarded or terminated at any time, as
deemed appropriate by the Board of Directors.
Long-Term Guests
Supporting members requesting to row out of Riverside for an extended time may do so for an additional charge. This time period
may not extend more than 8 weeks, is subject to availability and is at the discretion of the Board.
Riverside/Potomac Guest Agreement
Established in 2006
Riverside Boat Club and Potomac Boat Club recognize the long standing friendship between the two clubs.
Senior members are allowed to launch from each other’s boathouses provided they are current members in good standing at their
home club and have contacted the guest club’s Captain (RBC) or Chair of the Membership Committee (PBC) at least 2 weeks ahead
of time for approval and instructions.
PBC members are able to row RBC’s equipment under the following guidelines: 1.up to eight outings per year at no fee,2.with
reference of rowing competency from PBC and 3.signed waiver and agreement to read and follow the river traffic rules.
RBC members are able to row PBC equipment on a guest row basis provided they 1.identify a PBC member who will serve as their
direct sponsor.If the RBC member does not have a PBC member to serve as their sponsor, the Membership Committee will be asked
to identify a PBC member to serve as sponsor.2. obtain approval from the Chair of the Membership Committee and 3.sign a
liability waiver.
In cases where PBC/RBC members relocate between cities, when possible, special consideration or priority will be given by the
receiving club, provided the member was in good standing and has a positive reference from the departed club.
Riverside members who take advantage of this reciprocal arrangement are reminded of their responsibility to preserve this
arrangement by abiding by and respecting Potomac Boat Club’s rules.
The Riverside Name and Riverside Stripes
Competing for Riverside
When competing, all members shall row under the Riverside name and wear Riverside stripes.Exceptions may be granted by the
Board in the event that a regatta does not allow composite boats.
Privately Owned Oars
Scullers who row their own boats from the club are expected to purchase their own oars.All privately owned oars shall be painted
with the club design and colors per State Police regulations. Official club colors are royal blue and white.
Trading on the Riverside Name
Members who earn money through advertising with the use of Riverside colors, logo, equipment, or boathouse must have permission
of the Board of Directors and are required to donate a Board determined portion of the proceeds to the club (minimum of 10% of
their earnings ).
Postings
All posters and announcements for races are club property and shall not be removed. Postings may include executive notices, the list
of boat racks, the sculling ladder, the boat eligibility list, the boat use schedule and club rules.
Committees
All members are required to join a boathouse committee.The committee list includes but is not limited to the following:
Building and Grounds Committee
The Building and Grounds Committee has the responsibility for the maintenance and upkeep of the boathouse, ramps, floats and
physical surroundings of the club.Many of the tasks are performed by members during Saturday morning work parties.Such tasks
include painting, cleaning, minor plumbing and carpentry repairs.Long-term objectives of the committee are to assess the need and
cost of major capital improvements.Since many needs can go unnoticed for a long period, it is expected that all members help keep
an eye open for deteriorating conditions and promptly bring them to the committee’s attention.Each member and guest can
contribute greatly to this committee by simply using the walkways and not trampling the grass.
Design Committee
The Design Committee was established in 1983 to coordinate the visual and conceptual aspects of the club and to make a coherent
image for the club from its traditions.Their work has included; space and grounds planning, building restoration, design of the club’s
stationery, racing uniforms and medals and fundraising apparel.Riverside’s first racing medal, which is unique in its depiction of a
mixed racing double, was also developed by this Committee.The Design Committee is also responsible for the publication of the
Riverside Member Handbook.
Equipment Committee
The Equipment Committee oversees the purchases of equipment for water and land training.It monitors equipment needs throughout
the year.Each fall it produces an equipment budget for the Board’s approval.This Committee is responsible for repairing,
maintaining and rigging club boats and equipment.Projects include parts inventory, rigging, repairs, and winter refurbishing.
Fundraising Committee
The Fundraising Committee’s purpose is to establish an annual fundraising program that will support future growth of the Club in
areas of equipment, coaching, facilities and international competition expenses.
History and Archives Committee
The History and Archives Committee researches and compiles information on all aspects of the club’s history.It is also responsible
for maintaining the club’s scrapbook, restoring photos and awards and contributing articles to the newsletter.
Membership Committee
The Membership Committee is a standing committee as outlined by our constitution.The Vice President and Captain are standing
members.Other members of the committee participate in the overall membership application, orientation, and clearance process.
Additional duties include reviewing and analyzing the membership structure and providing recommendations to the Board of
Directors.
Newsletter Committee
The Riverside Quarterly is a newsletter written and published by committee members, with input from club members, four times a
year.It’s purpose is to enhance and improve communications between all members of the club.All are encouraged to contribute.
Community Relations Committee
This committee seeks to establish relations with the surrounding community, through, but not limited to the media – a necessity for
growth of the organization.
Regatta Committee
The Regatta Committee schedules and coordinates club regattas. The Riverside Sprints are hosted in May and the Cromwell Cup is
hosted in July.It also publicizes important regattas organized by other clubs and organizations.
The Social Committee
The goal of the Social Committee is to encourage club unity by organizing and promoting a range of activities throughout the year.
The Post Charles Jam and Holiday Party are the big events, but the Opening Breakfast at the Crusher Casey Stake Race and the
breakfasts following the Heads of the Kevin have become popular events for racers and families.
The President’s Committee
The President’s Committee consists of three members, each having a three –year term staggered such that one member’s term expires
each year. The domain of this committee is to generate and administer long-term plans for the club. The committee will meet a
minimum of four times per year and the residing president will be included in any committee votes. The three members will report to
the Board in June and December. During the December meeting the President’s Committee members will also vote to approve the
budget for the following year.
Equipment Use
Authority of the Captain
The Captain, as the representative of the Board, is responsible for, and has authority over, all club equipment and all water related
activities. If the Captain is not available, Board Members have this responsibility and authority.
Club Boat Season
Clubboats are not allowed on the water between December 1 and April 1 without permission from the Captain. Boat Use and
Restricted Boats Members who have not passed the Captain’s test may not row any single, or bow or toe any other club boat except
under the supervision of a coach.Gigs and rec. singles may be used with the captain’s permission in preparation for the Captain’s
test.
The Captain has the authority to place restrictions on any boat or piece of equipment when necessary.
Captain’s Test
All rowers must demonstrate their rowing ability by passing the Captain’s Test to earn the privilege of using club boats.Before
taking the test, novice scullers must log 100 miles in a gig.Double and quad miles may be counted toward the 100 miles, but may
not account for more than 50% of miles earned.Sweep rowers must log 100 miles in the bow of a sweep boat under supervision of a
coach and have the coach’s recommendation to be eligible for testing.In addition to this, all Captain’s test applicants must
demonstrate a thorough knowledge of the following:
1.The most current version of the river rules as defined by the River Users Committee
2.Contact information for the Captain and the Captain’s representatives
3.How to report an accident or incident
4.Reporting damage to a boat
5.Proper use of the boat use schedule
6.Rules of boat use priority
7.Boat weight capacities
8.How to use the log book
9.The Club rules
10. Boat maintenance duties
11. Proper procedure for travel with club boats
The second part of the test asks for a demonstration of boat handling and rowing skill, which may include but not be limited to:
1.Racking the boats
2.Launching in the proper direction
3.Paddling (square and feather)
4.Turning (pivot)
5.Stopping quickly (holding water)
6.Rowing backwards (backing water)
7.Docking in the proper direction
Launch Use
The club launches and engines are to be used only by the coaches or other personnel authorized by the Captain.
Boat Schedule
1. A member may reserve a single or double for three sessions per week. Requests for the use of any club boat must be addressed to
the Captain in accordance with the Captain’s stated procedure.The time slots for the reservations are:
Monday-Friday
5:30AM to 6:45AM
6:45AM to 8:00AM
5:00PM to 6:15PM* (note summer hours)
6:15PM to 7:30PM*(note summer hours)
Saturday and Sunday
5:30AM to 7:15AM
7:15AM to 9:00AM
If a scheduled sculler has not launched an assigned boat before the beginning of a coached session, another eligible sculler
may take the boat.
If a scheduled sculler has not launched an assigned boat within five minutes after the beginning of a session without
coaching, another eligible sculler may take the boat
If a rower does not plan to row in a reserved slot, he or she should note availability on the schedule as soon as possible, so
that others may plan for that slot.If the member cannot note availability on the schedule, an email should be sent notifying
the membership of the availability.
2. Club boats may not be reserved for the time intervals listed below. Authorized club members may row club boats at their
convenience during these times.
Monday through Friday8:00am to 5:00pm
SaturdayAfter 10:00am
SundayAfter 10:00am
3.Members must return club equipment in time for the beginning of the next session, whether or not the boat is reserved.The
member must make the boat available for the duration of the grace period (five minutes, non-coached days only).
4. The Captain’s permission must be obtained to use club equipment outside the hours of 5:30AM to 7:30PM, and to remove
equipment from club property. Equipment includes, but is not limited to, boats, oars, car racks and boat trailer. Equipment must be
properly signed out in the Equipment Loan Book.
Summer/Weekend Hours
Club boats may not be on the river after 5:00PM Friday and after 10:00AM Saturday and Sunday beginning the Friday before
Memorial Day weekend and extending through Labor Day, unless accompanied by a coach.
Log Books [Fleet Watch]
Members must make an entry in the appropriate log book [Fleet Watch System] at the beginning and end of each row.Entries shall
include the names of all rowers, boat name, time of departure and return, number of miles rowed and the accumulated mileage of
both the rower and the boat.
Members shall check the logbook to see that everyone is off the river before locking the bay doors.The last member to sign in is
responsible for locking the boathouse.
The logbooks serve as a means of record and communication.Neither the log books nor any of their contents shall be removed.
Traffic Pattern
Members are expected to read and fully comply with the established and most current traffic pattern document provided by the River
Users Group.
Boat Assignment
There are three means for establishing priority for the use of boats.
Service to the club.
Seniority - Senior members have priority over provisional members for reserving boats.
Sculling ladder - if two scullers/crews are in the same membership class, the sculling ladder shall determine priority.
The purpose of establishing priority among scullers is to equitably settle conflicts in use.
Handicaps
Handicaps are established to try and balance out the effects of age, gender and weight on a sculler’s speed.They are calculated for
2,000 meters.
Age:
3 seconds/year for 50+ years
2 seconds/year for 40+ years
? 1 second/year for 35+ years
½ second/year for 30+ years
Weight:10 seconds for lightweight
Gender:40 seconds for women
Handicapped scullers may set the distance as that which their class typically races, and the time allowance will be adjusted
accordingly for the distance raced.
Priority is obtained when a challenger wins the defender’s position
A challenge must be accepted within a reasonable amount of time, or the challenger wins by default
Equipment Care
1.Rowers should row boats appropriate to their weight. Weight classes are:
Lightweightaverage 160 lbs
Midweightaverage 160-190 lbs
Heavyweightaverage 190 lbs
2. Gigs should be carried by two people.
3.Members are not to change the rigging of boats except to move foot stretchers and pop-out washers, unless given specific
permission by the Captain.
4. Members who row club boats are expected to participate in the cleaning and maintenance of the boats, as assigned by the Captain
or the captain’s designee
5. All club boats must be wiped down, drained and vented after each use.
Equipment Damage
1. Damage to, or loss of, any equipment must be reported immediately to the Captain and President, and an incident report should be
filed.Equipment damage is to be reported in the boat damage log, and a note should be placed on the damaged equipment.
2. All members in a club boat involved in an accident are responsible for damage as described in the Boat Damage Policy.
Boat Washing
The Captain may assign boat washing duties to members or teams.Boats must be drained and washed outside the boathouse on the
upstream float away from ramps.
Land-Training Equipment
Land training equipment, including weights, is to be kept upstairs and ergs should be wiped down after each use.Exceptions will be
made only with explicit permission from the Captain.
Traveling with Club Equipment
Boats may travel to regattas or other venues, with permission of the Captain or Captain’s designee.All equipment must be washed,
rigged and returned to its rack or rightful place in time for the earliest next session, including the 5:30am session.If a member is
unable to return and ready boats for rowing in time for the next earliest session, clearance must be granted by the Captain.
Annual Award of Rack Privilege
Storage of boats at Riverside, including boats stored temporarily outside on racks or trailers require permission from the Captain.
There are a number of private indoor racks at Riverside for an annual cost additional to membership dues.Rack holders and
applicants must be members in good standing and must row for Riverside in all regattas, unless special permission is granted by the
Board.Annual boat mileage is calculated from January 1 to December 31.Failure to comply with the rack requirements will result
in forfeiture of the rack.
1.Current and prospective rack-holders shall file an application with the Captain each season.The entire pool of eligible applicants
is discussed case-by-case by the Board to determine each applicant’s merit based on the criteria listed below.The Captain assigns all
available rack spaces to applicants in the order determined by the Board. Applicants who do not receive rack spaces remain on the
rack list in no particular order and assignment will continue based on the criteria below.The receiver of a rack assignment has six
months to fill the rack after which time the assignment expires.The Board may temporarily assign an unoccupied rack.
The criteria are as follows:
Work parties
Concessions
Special assignments
Committee work
Committee chair
Board of Directors
Under 45 years of age at least 500 miles / year
45 to 55 at least 400 miles/year
Over 55 at least 300 miles/year
2.Rack-holders must re-apply each season, and their service to the club, committee work, and other membership obligations will be
reviewed prior to re-award of rack.
3.If a rack-holder is unable to consistently utilize the assigned rack because of injury or for any reason, then he or she must notify
the Captain as soon as possible to make arrangements to share the boat or rack.If a rack vacancy (or inactivity) is addressed quickly,
the rack holder will be assured a smooth return of their privilege when appropriate.
4. The Board of Directors may revoke a rack assignment.
Constitution of Riverside Boat Club
Article 1
Name and Principal Office
The name of this club shall be "Riverside Boat Club of Cambridge" and its principal office shall be at 769 Memorial Drive, City of
Cambridge, County of Middlesex, Commonwealth of Massachusetts, 02139.
Article II
Objective
The objective of this club shall be the encouragement and furtherance of aquatic and athletic sports among amateurs, more
particularly the instruction and improvement in and enjoyment of the art of rowing and the promotion of a friendly and social spirit
among its members.
Article III
Membership
The club shall consist of the following classes of members who shall be entitled to clubhouse privileges.
1.Life Members. Life membership shall generally be reserved for the purpose of honoring persons who shall have been of lasting
and outstanding service to the club or to the sport of rowing. It shall not be awarded as compensation for specific services rendered.
Life members shall have all the rights all privileges and responsibilities of senior members, but shall not be liable for any dues and
fees. A person shall be elected to life membership only by unanimous vote of the Membership Committee and the Board of Directors
present at the meeting at which membership is proposed. A nomination for life membership may be submitted by any senior member.
2. Senior Members. Any person who shall have attained the age of eighteen years shall be eligible for election as a senior member
after a period of one year as a provisional member or as a junior member. Senior members may hold office in the club and shall be
entitled to cast one vote at any meeting of the club at which said member is present. Senior members shall be elected by two-thirds
vote of those senior members present at the meeting to which application is made.
3. Provisional Members. Any person who shall have reached the age of 18 shall be eligible for election as a provisional member after,
except in the case of a junior member, having been a guest of a senior member for a period of four weeks. Provided that a novice at
either sweeps or scull must also log a minimum of 50 miles of rowing under the supervision of the host member prior to application.
A provisional member may apply for senior membership at any time after twelve months as a provisional member and will continue
as a provisional member if that application is denied. Provisional members shall be elected by a simple majority of those present at
the meeting to which application is made. The Membership Committee, by unanimous vote, may designate a person a provision
member temporarily until the next meeting to which an application for such membership is presented.
4. Junior Members. In order to provide the opportunity for younger persons to engage in rowing under the supervision of club
members, any person under the age of eighteen may be eligible for election as a junior member after having been a guest of a senior
member for a period of four weeks, provided that a novice at either sweeps or sculls, must also log a minimum of 50 miles of rowing
under the supervision of the host member prior to application. Junior members shall be elected by two-thirds vote of those present at
the meeting to which the application is accepted. A junior member may not hold office in the club and shall have no vote. At age
eighteen and after at least a year as a junior member, a junior member may be eligible for senior membership. If not so elected, such
junior member shall become a provisional member.
5. Supporting Members. Upon application, a person age 18 or over may be elected as supporting member by a two-thirds vote at a
meeting to which application is made. A supporting member may not hold office in the club and shall have no vote. A senior,
provisional, family, or junior member may be transferred to and from supporting membership status. A supporting member may be
reinstated to provisional member status upon payment of appropriate dues and fees. A supporting member will have limited access to
club facilities as established by the Board.
6. Family Membership. Any senior or provisional member with a spouse or with children under age of 18, or 22 if a full-time
student, with an interest in rowing may apply for a family membership. Each family member shall be elected by two-thirds vote of
those present at the meeting to which application is made. A senior member who is part of a family membership shall retain his/her
right to vote and hold office.
7. Program Membership. The purpose of this membership shall be for enabling individuals and groups to participate in competitive
training programs offered by the club. The terms of program membership, including privileges and fees shall be determined by the
Board of Directors and by two-thirds vote of those present at a meeting of members at which the board's recommendation is
presented.
8. No guest shall be permitted to log more than 50 miles without being proposed for junior or provisional membership.
9. Voting upon applications for membership shall be by secret ballot unless waived by unanimous consent.
10. All persons holding comparable memberships in the club prior to the adoption of these by-laws shall continue as life, senior, or
supporting members as the case may be.
Article IV
Board of Directors and Officers
1.Unless otherwise directed by the membership or otherwise specified by the By-laws, all matters of governance of the club in every
respect shall be determined by the Board of Directors including without limitation the setting of dues, fees, assessments and
numerical membership limits, the maintenance of order, the protection of club property, the handling of club funds, the discipline of
members and all other matters incident to successful continuation of the club into the future in accordance with its objectives. The
Board of Directors shall have no power to render the club liable for any debt exceeding the amount of money which shall at the time
of contracting such debt, be in the treasury and not needed for discharge of prior unfunded debts or liabilities of the club. A decision
of the Board of Directors may be overruled only by a vote of two-thirds of the members present at a meeting called for that purpose
on two weeks notice. At such a meeting each member of the Board of Directors shall have one vote on the issue in question.
2. The Board of Directors shall consist of eight members as follows: the President, The Vice President, the Secretary, the Treasurer
and the Captain, plus three Trustees elected at the Annual Meeting. To ensure continuity, at the first election following adoption of
these By-laws, one Trustee shall be elected for a 1 year term; one Trustee shall be elected for a 2 year term and one Trustee shall be
elected for a 3 year term; and thereafter one Trustee shall be elected for a 3 year term at each subsequent annual meeting. The Board
of Directors shall meet not less frequently than once a month and five members shall constitute a quorum.
3. Terms.The President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer and Captain shall take office immediately upon their election at the
annual meeting and shall serve for a term of one year and until successors are duly elected. Officers are eligible for reelection.
Vacancies in any office may be filled for the balance of the term by the Board of Directors.
4. President. The President shall be the chief officer of the club and shall preside at meetings of the club and of the Board of
Directors. S/he shall be a member ex-officio of all committees. S/he shall communicate to the club such matters and make such
suggestions as may in his opinion tend to promote the welfare and increase the usefulness of the club, and shall perform such other
duties as necessary incident to the office.
5. Vice-president. The Vice President shall perform all duties of the president during the absence of the president. S/he shall be a
member ex-officio of all committees and shall be chairman of the Membership Committee.
6. Secretary. The Secretary shall issue all notices, keep a record of the meetings of other members of the club, the proceedings of the
Board of Directors and of other matters concerning which a record shall be at all reasonable times be open to the inspection of any
senior member of the club. The Secretary shall conduct all correspondence pertaining to the office and shall have custody of the seal,
if any, of the club.
7. Treasurer. The Treasurer shall keep an account of all moneys received and expended for use of the club and shall make
disbursements authorized by the Board of Directors. All sums received shall be deposited by him in a bank or banks approved by the
Broad of Directors, and s/he shall make a report at the annual meeting or when called upon by the President. Funds may be drawn
only on the signature of the Treasurer. The duties of the Treasurer, under the approval of the Board of Directors, maybe delegated to
an assistant treasurer. The funds, books, and vouchers in his hands shall at all times be subject to verification and inspection by the
elective officers of the club. At the expiration of his term of office, the treasurer shall deliver to the successor all books, money, and
other property of the club.
8 Captain. The Captain shall have charge of the Club's boats and the placement of member's boats and their use and storage under the
direction of the Board of Directors, shall see that proper repairs are made and equipment furnished, and shall enforce the rules of the
club relating thereto. S/he shall ex-officio be a member of the Regatta Committee.
Article V
Election of Officers
1. The elections of club officers shall take place annually at the time and place of the annual meeting. Any senior member who has
been such for at least 2 years shall be eligible for office. Any senior member who has been a club member for at least 1 year may also
be eligible if two-thirds of the voting members present approve such nomination.
2. An officer may be removed from office only by a majority vote of the Board of Directors, followed by a two-thirds vote of the
members present at a meeting specifically called for such purpose on two weeks notice. The person charged shall have no vote on
such issue.
3. Nominations and Elections. Nominationsfor club officers and trustees shall be open 30 days prior to the annual meeting in
November and shall remain open up to and including the time of vote. An official list of nominees for all positions will be posted. At
the annual meeting in November the elections of club officers and trustees will be held. Each candidate has five minutes to give a
campaign speech, followed by a question and answer period to be controlled by the election monitor.
Article VI
Meetings
1. The Annual Meeting of the club shall be held on the second Tuesday of November in each year, unless adjourned by the Board of
Trustees, for election of officers and trustees, receiving reports, and transactions of other business. Monthly meetings may be held on
the first Tuesday of any other month by decision of the Board of Directors or by the membership at a previous meeting.
2. The President may at any time, and upon written request of eight senior members, the secretary shall call, a special meeting with
two weeks notice to the membership.
3. The presence of one-third of the total number of senior and life members shall constitute a quorum at any meeting.
4. The order of business at the Annual Meeting shall be as follows:
a. Call to order
b. Reading of minutes from previous meeting
c. Reports
d. Election of officers
e. Unfinished business
f. New Business
g. Adjournment
The order of business may be altered or suspended at any meeting by a majority vote of the senior members present. The usual
parliamentary rules as laid down by Robert's Rules of Order shall govern when not in conflict with these by-laws.
Article VII
Committees
1. The club shall have at least three standing committees: a Membership Committee of five persons, a Regatta Committee of five
persons and a Presidential Committee of three persons. Additional standing committees may be established from time to time by the
Board of Directors. Members of these committees shall be appointed by the Board of Directors which shall, unless otherwise
provided herein, also designate the chairperson of each committee. Three year terms shall be staggered so that one or more expire
each year. No person shall serve more than two consecutive three year terms. Elected officers and trustees may also be appointed to
these committees. Appointments may be revoked at any time by majority vote of the Board of Directors.
2. Membership Committee. The Membership Committee shall be responsible for screening prospects for all classes of membership
and reporting its recommendations to the membership for action not less often than quarterly. It shall be established and publish its
ruling regarding applications which are not inconsistent with these by-laws. The Vice President shall be chairman ex-officio.
3. Regatta Committee. The Regatta Committee shall be responsible for the planning and supervision of all regattas for which the club
is host, and in cooperation with the Captain and individual competing members, for coordinating participation of the club and its
members in regattas and other competition hosted by sister organizations. It shall establish and publish rules regarding such activity
which are not inconsistent with these by-laws.
4. Presidential CommitteeThe Presidential Committee will consist of three members each having a three year term staggered such
that one member’s term expires each year. The domain of this committee is to generate and administer long term plans for the club.
The committee will meet a minimum of four times per year and the residing president will be included in any committee votes. The
three members will report to the board in June and December. During the December meeting the Presidential committee members
will also vote to approve the budget for the following year.
Article VIII
Liabilities
Nothing herein shall constitute members of the club as partner for any purpose. No member, officer, agent, contractor, or employee
shall be liable for the acts or failure to act of any other member, officer, agent or employee of the club. Nor shall any member, officer
agent, or employee be liable for his/her acts of failure to act under these by-laws, excepting only acts or omissions arising out of his/
her willful malfeasance.
Article IX
Mail Vote
When in the judgment of the Board of Directors, any question shall arise that should be put to a vote of the membership, and when it
deems it inexpedient to call a special meeting for that purpose it may, unless otherwise required by these by-laws, submit the matter
to the membership in writing by mail for vote and decision, and the question thus presented shall be determined according to a
majority of the votes received by mail within two weeks after such submission to the membership, provided that in each case votes of
at least fifty percent of the senior members shall be received. Action taken in this manner shall be as effective as action at a duly
called meeting.
Article X
Expulsion
If any member shall be charged by any other member, in writing addressed to the Board of Directors or any member thereof, with
conduct injurious to the good order, peace or interest of the club, or at variance with the requirements of the by-laws, the Board of
Directors shall thereupon inform the member charged in writing. If upon inquiry the Board of Directors shall be satisfied of the truth
of the charge, and that the same demands such action, the Board of Directors shall request the charged member to resign, and if such
charged member declines to do so, shall refer the matter to a regular or special meeting (notice of the purpose of which shall be given
to the membership two weeks in advance of such meeting), and the club, after the presentation of the case, and hearing the person so
charged if such person desired to be heard, may proceed to expel such person. A motion for expulsion shall be decided on a secret
ballot, and the vote of two-thirds of the members present shall be necessary to expel. The person shall have no vote on such issue.
Article XI
Amendment
Articles of these by-laws (except Article XIII) may be amended or repealed by a vote of two-thirds of the members present at any
regular meeting, provided that notice of the general character of such amendment or repeal shall have been given at the preceding
meeting.
Article XII
Club House Privileges
No intoxicating beverages shall be allowed in the premises without express permission of the Board of Directors.
Article XIII
Dissolution
The club shall not be dissolved or the boathouse disposed of as long as ten members in good standing are willing to contribute, and
this article with respect to dissolution shall not be altered or amended unless by unanimous vote of all the members present at a
regular or special meeting, provided that due and sufficient notice of the purpose of such meeting be mailed to each member not less
than 30 days prior to the date of such meeting. In the event of dissolution of the club pursuant to laws of these by-laws, the remaining
assets of the club shall be given to the National Rowing Foundation (United States Rowing Association).
Article XIV
Membership Conduct and Sexual Harassment
1. Member Conduct
The Club requires all of its members to behave appropriately and respectfully toward each other, guests and employees of the Club
while using the Club facilities, attending regattas, events or in public forums or discussions related to the Club or the rowing
community. Acts of conduct which, in the opinion of the Board, is injurious or detrimental to the good order, welfare, best interests,
or character of the Club, or at variance with the requirements of these by-laws or promulgated rules and regulations of the Club will
not be tolerated. Although it is not possible to list every type of prohibited conduct, examples of such misconduct include but are not
limited to the following:
physical or verbal abuse of a fellow member, an employee or a guest, including but not limited to discourteous and/or disrespectful
treatment of coaches and staff;
physical or verbal abuse of a member, employee or guest of other boat clubs or river organizations, including but not limited to
discourteous and/or disrespectful treatment of other boaters, coaches, race officials and staff;
damage to, or destruction, misuse or theft of any property owned by the Club, a fellow member, an employee or a guest;
intentional falsification of the Club records including, but not limited to the payment of dues or fees;
defrauding or attempting to defraud the Club;
violation of the Club’s Harassment/Sexual Harassment Policy;
violation of the Club’s By-Laws, or other member rules, regulations or policies.
2. Harassment/Sexual Harassment
It is the policy of the Club that all of our members, guests and employees/contractors should be able to enjoy a Club and work
environment free from discrimination and harassment including sexual harassment. Riverside Boat Club will not allow any form of
sexual harassment within the work/social/boat club environment. Sexual harassment creates an intimidating, hostile, and/or offensive
environment.It will not be tolerated.
Sexual harassment, as defined in this policy, includes, but is not limited to, sexual advances, verbal or physical conduct of a sexual
nature, visual forms of a sexual or offensive nature [e.g., signs and posters], or requests for sexual favors.
The Club’s Harassment/Sexual Harassment Policy provisions which cover prohibited conduct toward employees is also applicable
with respect to such conduct toward or between members/guests.
3. Complaints of Member Misconduct; Disciplinary Action
If any member shall be charged in writing, addressed to the Board of Directors by any other member, by any employee of the Club or
by an outside party, with conduct injurious or detrimental to the good order, welfare, best interests, or character of the Club, or at
variance with the requirements of these by-laws or promulgated rules and regulations of the Club, or if the Board on its own accord
shall become cognizant of such conduct, then the Board, after such investigation and deliberation as it deems appropriate in each
particular circumstance, may proceed to:
-reprimand said member orally or in writing; or
-suspend said member for a period not to exceed six months; or
-request said member’s resignation.
If member declines to resign, shall refer the matter to a regular or special meeting and may proceed to expel said member by two-
thirds vote of senior members present, pursuant to Article X of these bylaws.
The End