Anyone who rents kayaks and paddleboards at White Rock Lake is paddling with a purpose.
Dallas Paddle took over the rental a few months ago and secured a three-year deal with the city. The company is operated by the Dallas United Crew rowing club with the goal of making the sport more diverse and accessible.
“Rowing itself needs to be a more inclusive sport,” said Austin Brooks, executive director of Dallas Paddle and Dallas United Crew. “We’re trying to break down those barriers.”
A portion of Dallas Paddle’s income is used for scholarships and outreach events in South Dallas.
According to Brooks, exposure to rowing helps develop teamwork and boost self-confidence.
“Academic skills are learned in the classroom, and there are things you learn outside of the classroom to become a more well-rounded person and really try to create the next generation of leaders,” Brooks said. “And then hopefully we’ll get recruited into college and be able to change lives for a long time.”
Dallas Paddle replaces the White Rock Paddle Company which went out of business last year.
“When you get out of here, you’re helping a child in need,” Brooks said. “You’re helping to create the next generation youth experience in Dallas.”
A portion of the proceeds will also benefit Dallas City Parks.
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