Master’s Racing

Vesper Boat Club offers a competitive and supportive masters rowing program for members looking to train, improve, and race. Designed for athletes of all ages and experience levels, the program welcomes those interested in competing at local Philadelphia races, the Diamond State Masters Regatta, USRowing Masters National Championships, the Head of the Charles, and the Head of the Schuylkill Regatta.

The program is led by Masters Coach John Leekley, who designs structured group workouts focused on both fitness and technical development. Sessions are typically offered on Tuesday and Thursday mornings, with a third weekend practice (times vary). Workouts include a mix of steady-state, drills, and higher-intensity intervals to help athletes build race-readiness and refine their technique.

Masters rowers primarily train in sculling boats of all sizes, with occasional sweep boats mixed in. The group is informal and flexible—athletes are welcome to show up when they can, with no sign-up required and no testing or selection process. Just come down and row.

Weekday workouts are typically geared toward the fastest and fittest in the group, but all committed rowers are encouraged to join. The team is also known for its welcoming spirit, with post-practice coffee runs, birthday celebrations, and beers at the boathouse after races.

Whether you’re aiming for a podium finish or simply want to get faster and fitter with a great group, Vesper’s Masters program offers a unique blend of performance, camaraderie, and fun.

2025 Vesper Masters Sculling Camp — August 23–24

Train with Vesper coaches on Philadelphia’s historic Boathouse Row at our 2025 Masters Sculling Camp, held Saturday, August 23 to Sunday, August 24 at Vesper Boat Club. This two-day camp is designed for experienced masters rowers looking to sharpen their skills ahead of head race season.

The program takes a holistic approach to training—blending on-the-water technical coaching and video review with off-the-water sessions including functional movement evaluation, rigging, strength training, and mental preparation. You’ll leave with actionable feedback, personalized drills, and a deeper understanding of your rowing.

Expect early morning coffee, post-row happy hours, and a Sunday night gathering with Vesper members—we believe rowing is as much about community as it is performance.

Camp Fee: $600
🔗 Register here!

About the Coach
John Leekley brings decades of experience coaching rowers of all levels—from collegiate to masters. A six-time Coach of the Year with Washington College, John has also worked with the U.S. Naval Academy’s Masters Women’s Camp and founded Masters Rowing Camps. He is a certified personal trainer, nutrition coach, and seasoned competitor with medals from Masters Nationals.