Olympian Sean Colgan and his brother and former national team athlete, Brian Colgan, have organized a network across the United States of donors and volunteers dedicated to helping Ukraine by keeping the sport accessible even during a time of turmoil.
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“It’s a way to give back,” said Brian Colgan. “We can’t all impact the course of the war—Ukraine defending against Russia. We can’t fight for them, but this is just something that rowers can do to feel like we’re doing our part to help out Ukraine.”
Rowing News covered the early stages of the Colgan’s efforts, now two containers of boats, oars, ergs, coxswain equipment, and more have already made their way to Ukraine and have been used to put on regattas and indoor erg races. The Colgans are continually looking to round up more equipment to send.
“We got our first container out in August from Rhode Island,” said Brian Colgan. “We sent a container out of California as well. We are planning to get another container out of New England in the time period between the Head of the Charles and Thanksgiving.”
The California container held two singles, four doubles, two eights, two fours, three pairs and two sets of eight oars.
“Back in March they they had their national ergometer championships held inside a bomb shelter, just so they could get it done,” said Brian Colgan. “They also had a regatta in August, and they were excited to get the whole regatta off without an air raid warning. I was like ‘wow the only thing we have to worry about at regattas down here is thunderstorms.’ They have a whole extra level of things to worry about when they try to stage a regatta.”
With the help of long-time rower and Rowing News contributor Andy Anderson, also know as Doctor Rowing, the Colgans are continually looking for donors to make delivering more containers a reality and preserve a sport for the Ukrainians, who now more than ever need hope– something to grasp beyond tragedy.
If you have equipment to donate or would otherwise like to support these efforts, please reach out to Brian Colgan directly at brianecolgan@gmail.com. If you are in New England, contact Andrii Ivanchuk from Riverside Boat Club at trubarower@gmail.com.
