Watch ‘Diversity in Motion’ at the Oakland-Alameda Estuary
East Bay Rowing Club (EBRC) is hosting its fourth annual Boats Without Barriers Regatta on May 18. This year’s theme, “Diversity in Motion,” celebrates inclusivity and diversity in rowing. The event features Masters rowing races for novices, adaptive rowers, men/male identifying athletes, women/female identifying athletes, and non-binary identifying individuals. All clubs and rowers are welcome to race.
EBRC launched the regatta as an inclusive alternative to racing in Florida after advocating against US Rowing’s decision to hold Masters National Championships there. The club, along with many other rowing groups, opposed the location due to state laws restricting transgender athletes in women’s and girls’ sports and limiting LGBTQ discussions in classrooms. Now an annual Oakland event, Boats Without Barriers champions inclusivity, welcoming all who wish to participate. EBRC’s mission is to make rowing an accessible and inviting sport for all.
“Boats without Barriers began with a simple belief: Rowing belongs to everyone,” says EBRC Executive Director Heather Krakora. “Four years later, this regatta isn’t just an event, it’s a statement that our water, our sport, and our community are stronger when everyone feels welcome. That’s why we’ll keep working to transform rowing culture—not just in Oakland, but across the country—into one where diversity isn’t just celebrated, but truly lived.”
Set on the historic Oakland Alameda Estuary, the 2025 Boats Without Barriers Regatta will feature 1,000-meter sweep and sculling races, along with high-energy 500-meter dash events. According to event organizers, rowers from across the country will unite in celebration of diversity and in support of the LGBTQ+ community and allies. Proceeds from the 500-meter dash will directly benefit LGBTQ+ programs in Oakland Unified School District (OUSD), helping create safer, more inclusive spaces for all students.
This year’s race starts at Brooklyn Basin (288 Ninth Avenue, Oakland) and finishes at the Jack London Aquatic Center viewing dock, located at 115 Embarcadero in Oakland. Racing begins at 8 a.m. and wraps up around 2 p.m. Spectators are encouraged to bring binoculars for the best views.
Learn more about the East Bay Rowing Club at the EBRC website.
