Hi, PBC!
Please note the following updates and reminders regarding erg/bike use:
Most importantly, the DC mask mandate is back in effect and masks must be worn at all times while indoors.
There is still no erging or biking indoors, period. Not even if masked.
Ergs and bikes may be used outside as long as there is no wet weather.
Do not drag ergs/bikes - they need to be wheeled or picked up so as not to damage the ballroom and porch floors, and must be lifted over the wood step between the ballroom and the porch. The bikes are particularly unwieldy, so ask for help moving them (and offer help if you see someone who might need it!). Please open both sides of the ballroom doors and be careful not to break the glass panes.
Make sure to fully sanitize equipment after you finish using it.
A maximum of 8 ergs or bikes can be used on the porch, spaced as far as possible. These ergs should be stored in/returned to the ballroom. In order to ensure adequate space, porch furniture should remain in or be returned to the ballroom.
A maximum of 12 ergs can be used on the lower patio, in two rows of six spaced as far apart as possible. Please leave enough room for others to walk in front/behind and to access the stairs and green tent. You may need to move trash cans/grills/etc. to maximize space. These ergs should be stored in/returned to the green tent.
A maximum of 12 ergs can be used on the upper patio, spaced as far apart as possible. Please leave enough room for others to be able to access the door and stairs. These ergs should be stored in/returned to the interior balcony overlooking the ballroom and should be brought out via third floor back hallway. They should stand upright and positioned so as not to block any doors. For safety reasons, they may not be stored in the hallway.
Competitive programs have priority for erg/bike use during their scheduled practice times, which are listed below. HPP has priority use of the porch for its practices. During scheduled team practices, space on the upper patio will be left open for a minimum of five ergs for members who are not part of racing programs. (If there is unused space on the patios or porch during practice times, non-program members are welcome to use that, as well.)
HPP: Mon-Fri 6:30-8:15am and Sat 7:00-9:00am
Women’s Sweep/Potomac Scullers: Tue/Thu 5:45-7:15am and Sat 7:00-8:30am
Men’s Sweep: Mon/Wed/Fri 5:15-7:00
If an erg needs attention, please contact Erg Czar Nick Woodfield at ergs@potomacboatclub.org.
If we are running low on sanitizing supplies, please send a note to the Reopening Committee at reopening@potomacboatclub.org.
If you have any questions, or if there are any issues with the racing program schedules, please post here or email me (Lauren) at racing@potomacboatclub.org.
We hope you and your families are staying safe and healthy, and we’re all looking forward to the day we can announce an end to all the covid rules.
On behalf of your friendly Racing, Security, and Reopening Committees,
Lauren, George, Lena, and Judith