#ucdboatclub – UCD Boat Club has launched an online crowdfunding campaign on PledgeSports.org to raise money to refurbish its training Bank Tank in Islandbridge.

The 98-year-old team, a regular at the Henley Royal Regatta, Colours, and the Irish National Championships, has set up this project to give supporters the opportunity to meet the team, row with the team, train with the team, and even BBQ with the team.

The Bank Tank is located at UCD's boathouse in Islandbridge, Dublin. It is a steel tank on the bank of the river that simulates a seat in a rowing boat. It is a tool for learning and developing technique and is used by all from the most basic beginner to the most elite oarsmen.

Shauna Fitzsimons, UCD Boat Club's cox, said: "The two tanks at our boathouse in Islandbridge have withstood the Irish weather for somewhat of an eternity and it is time for a new group of oarsmen and women to learn to row and perfect their technique in a much-needed refurbished bank tank.

"The tank needs shoes, seats and slides, rigs, oars and some general refurbishment and reinforcement of the walls. This project, despite being seemingly simple, is a costly one and your support, big or small, would be greatly appreciated. Help us power UCD and Irish rowing upstream, fast!"

Among the rewards UCD Boat Club is offering for supporters of its PledgeSports.org campaign is a trial of the Bank Tank at a summer BBQ, commemorative wrist bands, and rowing lessons. Visit PledgeSports.org for more.