26 POINT LU SPOTLIGHT: Row House South Lake Union

For Niki and Nathan of Row House South Lake Union, 26 Point LU is about much more than rowing meters - it's about opening doors.

Niki first heard about the event from a Row House member who encouraged her to get involved. Although she missed the registration deadline that year, she connected with the George Pocock Rowing Foundation and knew she wanted Row House to be part of the event in the future.

What drew them in was a shared belief in the power of sport.

"Sometimes we take for granted that fitness and sports can be intimidating," says Niki. "But sport can change your life. The fact that some people don't have access to those opportunities is something we'd like to help change."

For Nathan, a longtime on-water rower and coach, the connection is equally personal. Whether coaching experienced masters rowers or people trying rowing for the very first time, he's witnessed firsthand how transformative the sport can be.

"Rowing is unique because almost no one walks in and is immediately good at it," he says. "It levels the playing field. People learn, grow, and support one another. That's what makes it so special."

At Row House, that philosophy shapes everything they do. The studio emphasizes community over competition, creating a welcoming environment where members are encouraged to challenge themselves without comparing themselves to others.

"It's a safe space," Nathan says. "Our coaches genuinely care about our members. We celebrate effort and progress."

That spirit carried over into 26 Point LU.

For Nathan, one of the most memorable moments came at the finish.

"The energy kept building throughout the event," he recalls. "By the final countdown, the entire room was buzzing. Everyone was cheering, and it felt like we were all accomplishing something together."

Niki loved seeing athletes from every background and experience level competing side by side.

"It was incredible watching high school athletes, college rowers, masters rowers, and first-time participants all pushing themselves together. Everyone approached the challenge differently, and that made it so fun to watch."

As indoor rowing continues to grow, both Niki and Nathan see opportunities to further connect the indoor and on-water rowing communities.

"What I appreciate about 26 Point LU is how it brings together indoor and on-water rowers for a common purpose," Nathan says. "It reminds us that no matter how we row, we're all part of the same community."

If they had to describe the event in one sentence?

"Join us as a community coming together to make rowing more accessible for everyone."

And that's exactly what 26 Point LU is all about.

Save the Date: 26 Point LU 2027 will be held on Saturday, February 20th at the Mount Baker Community Club (2811 Mt Rainier Dr S, Seattle, WA 98144)