History of Row for the Cure®

Where it all began…

Row for the Cure, with the support of USRowing, is the rowing and water-sports community’s crusade against breast cancer, raising over $1.1 million to benefit local affiliates of Komen for the Cure.
With one in eight women being diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime, the need to fight this disease resonates clearly in rowing – a sport known for its “big boats” — 60-foot racing shells with eight rowers.

The inspiration of Portland, Oregon rower Kathy Frederick, the initial Row for the Cure took place in 1994 on Portland’s Willamette River as a way for the rowing community to support runners and walkers participating in the Rose City’s Race for the Cure.  That first regatta  raised a modest $1,500. Today, with events in 15 U.S. states and Germany, Row for the Cure has blossomed into a multi-sport event that includes athletes of all ages representing four sports; rowing, canoe/kayak, dragon boat and Native American paddling.
With over 20 cities having hosted a Row for the Cure, participants now raise over $300,000 annually, rowing and paddling together to save lives in their local communities.