CRI (Community Rowing Inc) - Ted Benford

10/14/24 • 49 min

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In this special episode, we host an exclusive interview with Ted Benford, Executive Director of Community Rowing Inc. (CRI). Whether you're new to the sport or a seasoned rower, this episode will give you an inside look at how rowing has grown into a vibrant community sport in New England and how CRI is a big part of it!
Fun fact: Over 2 million people row daily in the U.S.

Ted shares his fascinating journey as an athlete and coach, his extensive experience leading elite crews at major competitions like the Royal Henley Regatta and World Rowing Championships, and his work with Fortune 500 companies and Olympic rowers. Ted has coached at several DI and DIII programs in the area including Tufts, BC, MIT, and Northeastern. Now h'es devoting his time and energy into the wonderful community at CRI. Learn how CRI, located on Boston's iconic Charles River, has become a beacon for inclusivity, offering free programs for veterans, youth rowing programs for Boston and Cambridge public schools, corporate team-building rowing programs, and much more.

From hidden gem rowing locations in Neponset, Hingham, and Duxbury to CRI’s role as one of the US National Team training centers for the Paris 2024 and LA 2028 Olympics, this episode is packed with insights. Ted also discusses the mission of CRI, their involvement in Cambridge and Boston’s unique rowing-in-schools program, and how CRI is building community through rowing.

Whether you’re curious about rowing in general, learning about CRI's youth development program, corporate rowing program, or hearing about future initiatives in New England’s rowing scene, Ted’s expertise will inspire and inform. Join us for an inspiring conversation about the sport of rowing in the greatest endurance region in the world—New England!

Art & Eric embark on a journey to showcase and celebrate the endurance sports community in New England.

Hi there! Feel free to drop us a text if you enjoy the episode.

Art & Eric embark on a journey to showcase and celebrate the endurance sports community in New England.

Previous Episode

Karen Smyers: From World Champion to Community Advocate – A Triathlon Journey

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In this episode of the New England Endurance Podcast, we are joined by Karen Smyers, a triathlon legend and an inspiring figure in endurance sports. Karen's accolades include winning the 1995 Hawaiian Ironman World Championship, claiming three ITU World Champion titles, and earning her place in both the World Triathlon and USA Triathlon Halls of Fame. For 26 years, she competed at the top level of professional triathlon, and today, she’s making an impact by coaching athletes and organizing local endurance events like the Lincoln Kids Triathlon: Splash, Mash, Dash in Lincoln, MA.
Karen shares insights on her illustrious career, memories of competing in iconic races, and reflects on her journey as a coach. We dive into topics like the evolution of triathlon in New England and the challenges of balancing family life while training for Ironman events. Plus, we explore her passion for getting kids involved in endurance sports and discuss her vision for a more inclusive future in triathlon.
Don’t miss this episode filled with stories, advice, and inspiration from one of triathlon’s all-time greats.
Tune in and follow us on Instagram @newenglandendurance for more details and updates!

Art & Eric embark on a journey to showcase and celebrate the endurance sports community in New England.

Next Episode

Tracksmith: Running, Community, and Crafting an Iconic Brand with Matt Taylor

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In this episode, we chat about the vibrant New England running culture with Matt Taylor, co-founder and CEO of Tracksmith, a brand that’s reshaping how we celebrate endurance sports. Matt shares the story behind Tracksmith’s foundation in 2014, how it captures the Amateur Spirit, and its strong connection to the region’s rich running history.
More than just an apparel company, Tracksmith has become a movement within the endurance community, fostering local grassroots running culture and celebrating the grit and tradition of New England athletes.
Matt also discusses Tracksmith’s involvement in the community through weekly workouts—Sunday mornings, Wednesday evenings, and Friday mornings—at their store locations in Boston, Williamsburg, NY, and London.
We also explore some hidden gems in the New England running scene including:

the Dole 3 Miler, a wonderful race in memory of George Dole
the legendary Plymouth-to-Provincetown Relay Run (now defunct but forever cherished)
the scenic Vermont Overland Trail Run

Whether you’re running along the coast or through the trails, there’s something special about this region’s races.

Tune in as Matt shares his personal endurance journey, thoughts on the future of running, and why New England is the greatest region for endurance sports. Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner or someone just beginning your running journey, this episode is packed with inspiration and insights.
Don't miss this exciting conversation with a true icon of the New England running community!

Art & Eric embark on a journey to showcase and celebrate the endurance sports community in New England.