Why Welland?

The ONGPC is located in Welland because of its pristine waterway and the culture of support, inclusion, and performance in the Welland rowing community.

Welland Canal

The Welland Canal is an ideal flatwater training location. Rowing in the Canal dates back many years and has a storied history. Several rowing clubs have existed along the Canal and it has been home to many national team training camps and high-quality regattas.

The ONGPC’s boathouse is located in the heart of Welland in an offshoot of the main canal. The ONGPC athletes have a 10km (or more) stretch of protected water to row in, which they typically do from early April until November in any given year. Finding a long body of water without much wind or current makes for great training. The athletes can continuously row in one direction for over 45 minutes, turn around, and do it all again.

Welland is an Up-and-Coming Community

Located in the heart of the picturesque Niagara Region, Welland is just minutes from neighbouring cities. Visitors are attracted to the area’s natural beauty, as they enjoy our annual festivals, downtown restaurants, heritage buildings, waterfront music concerts, multi-cultural attractions, year-round sports competitions, and outdoor events. Welland’s population has increased by almost 7% since 2016 and is forecasted to grow due to its enhanced quality of life. Welland and the Niagara Region are among Canada’s most culturally rich, affordable and safe places to live. Cost of living expenses are among Canada’s lowest.

Known for scenic cycling paths and the Welland International Flatwater Centre (WIFC), which hosts major international sporting events, Welland is Niagara’s sport-tourism destination.