Purdue Crew aims to raise money during annual row-a-thon

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. — The Purdue Crew team will host its annual row-a-thon fundraiser to raise money for local families in need.

Purdue Crew student-athletes will collaboratively row a 26-mile marathon on indoor rowing machines over the course of three hours on Feb. 4 at the Tippecanoe Mall, 2415 Sagamore Parkway S., Lafayette.

Half of the proceeds will be donated to Lafayette Urban Ministry’s Good Samaritan Fund, which provides emergency financial assistance to area families to pay for utilities, rent, food and other expenses. Last year the row-a-thon raised more than $8,500 for the ministries, with a large percentage of donations coming from outside of the greater Lafayette area from family and friends of crew student-athletes.

The other half of the proceeds will mostly be used to help alleviate competitive and training costs for the 135 rowers who each pay their own expenses to compete, about $2,700 annually for varsity members and $1,800 for novice members.

“As the largest sports team on campus, we are striving to set an example by achieving academically, athletically and civically as good citizens of the Greater Lafayette community. Exceling in these three areas will enhance our overall Purdue education and will provide us with a life-guiding experience,” said David Anderle, Purdue Crew president.

Donors can make checks payable to Purdue Crew Club and mail to 355 N. Martin Jischke Dr., West Lafayette, IN 47907, with a crew member’s name noted in the memo line if applicable. Supporters can also come to the mall to donate in person or just to cheer the participating rowers.

For more information, contact David Kucik, Purdue men’s head rowing coach, at 765-491-4700. 

Writer: Matt Watson, 765-496-3572, watso101@purdue.edu 

Source: David Kucik, 765-491-4700, dwk@purdue.edu