Thank you for visiting our Fall Fundraising Campaign!

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Our team is a student-run, self-funded rowing program with more than 50 years of history. Each season, rowers come together to train, compete, and build a community around the sport we love. Rowing is a sport with specialized and extremely expensive equipment, and our team’s operating costs are unsupported by the University's athletic programming. Because we have such high operating costs without institutional sponsorship, the support of our community plays an important role in keeping our program running. This semester, we need funds to cover racing costs, make equipment repairs, and save up money for the spring season ahead.

California Lightweight Rowing is currently at a pivotal moment: we have a large squad with many dedicated, enthusiastic athletes -- but we still face equipment shortages, breakages, and challenges that hold back our practice and racing ability. Our goal this semester is to make investments in quality equipment that will significantly increase our efficiency.

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Here is a breakdown of our annual operating costs:

Race Entry Fees & Registrations: $15,000

Travel & Hotels: $25,000

Boathouse Rent: $43,100

Insurance Coverage: $25,500

Equipment & Repairs: $6,000

Total Annual Expenses: $114,000

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Our auction page allows you to make donations directly towards specific equipment needs and racing costs.

In appreciation of your support:

$100: You will receive a personalized thank-you video from Cal Lights!

$250: For donations of $250 or more, you'll receive a print of the team - signed by our officers and coaches. This thanks includes all perks named above as well!

$750: For donations of $750 or more, you'll get your name(s) forever showcased on one of our oars. We'll contact you to confirm what you want printed to make sure we get everything right!

$1,000: For donations of $1000 or more, your name will be added to our new donor wall that will be displayed at the Lightweight Training Center as well as our website. This wall will be a physical testament to our donors' support of the team for many years to come. This perk includes all of the above perks as well!

$1,250: You can name a new Concept 2 ergometer (rowing machine) that will be used daily by our rowers to improve their fitness off the water.

$2,000: Help a rower's progression through Cal Lights by helping finance their dues. As an added perk, you will receive regular updates from the rower throughout the season.

$4,000: Your name will appear on one of the seats of our boats. We will contact you to determine which boat and which seat you would like to name!

$10,000: You can name a new Cal Lights rowing shell! We will contact you to determine what you wish to inscribe on the boat.

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Your generous donation helps support the many costs that make collegiate rowing possible, from equipment and boathouse expenses to travel, racing, and financial accessibility for our athletes. Every contribution, no matter the size, helps our team train, compete, and continue growing throughout the season.

Thank you for helping make the season ahead possible!

Cal Lightweight Rowing Fall 2026

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