Impact Report 2025 Board Members
Upcoming Events Rowing Center News Programs
Junior Program News Adult Program News
BIR in the Community Development News
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From the President
Spring is Here—Let’s Get Back on the Water!
After a year of deep learning as Vice President, I am honored to step into the role of President of BIR. A heartfelt thank you to my friend Jill Bamburg for her many years of dedicated board service and her exceptional leadership as Board President this past year—thank you, Jill!
We have an exciting year ahead as we continue to build on our strong foundation. With Amanda Pekasky as our Director of Programs and Business Development and Walker Hauptman as our Deputy Director of Rowing, BIR is moving forward with fresh energy and vision. Thanks to our members’ invaluable input during last year’s strategic planning process, we now have a solid, ambitious, and achievable annual operating plan to guide us. Growth is in motion, and we can’t wait to share what’s ahead!
Keep an eye out for new community events at the Boathouse, many in partnership with organizations across the Island. We’re especially proud of the welcoming environment we’ve created for new members through our 8th-grade programs, Learn to Row, and Novice programs. These programs provide a supportive space for beginners to build confidence, develop skills, and form lasting friendships on the water. If you’ve ever wanted to give rowing a try, this spring is the perfect time—come join us!
As we celebrate the successful completion of the Stan Pocock Rowing Center, we are looking ahead to even more exciting opportunities for our rowing community. Thank you all for your continued support—I look forward to seeing you on the water!
Warmly,
Kathy Kalstrup
2024 Impact Report
2024 Impact Report
We are thrilled to unveil Bainbridge Island Rowing’s inaugural Annual Impact Report! This milestone publication highlights the incredible achievements of our programs, participants, and community over the past year.
Why an Impact Report? At BIR, we believe in the power of transparency, celebration, and reflection. Our Impact Report is a way to share the measurable results of your support, showcase the stories that make our community unique, and inspire continued growth together.
In case you missed it, now’s your chance to dive into this exciting first edition! Check it out here to see how your involvement has propelled us forward and to explore what’s next for BIR.
2025 Board Members
2025 Board Members
Meet Your New Board Members We are thrilled to introduce our newest members joining the board! Their expertise and fresh perspectives will be invaluable as we continue to achieve our goals.
Kayla Holbeck – Secretary
Originally from South Dakota, Kayla has worked and lived around the world, including the UK, Russia, Australia, DC, and the Bay Area, arriving on Bainbridge during the early pandemic. With 20+ years of experience, she’s worked at the intersections of advocacy, nonprofit leadership, and mission-driven initiatives, focusing on issues like climate change, criminal justice reform, immigration, healthcare, and conservation—everything from registering first-time youth voters to partnering with high-net-worth individuals to amplify social impact efforts. She took up rowing three years ago as a novice and is working to convince all her friends and family to join the boathouse in some fashion. Outside of work and rowing, she keeps up with her two young daughters, dabbles in surfing with more enthusiasm than skill, and is looking forward to dusting off her skis after years of snowboarding.
Eric Ludwig – Co-Facilities Chair
Eric grew up in Oregon and Washington, attending Olympia High School before continuing his education at Western Washington University, where he rowed lightweight crew in high school and college. He earned an engineering degree from Western and later completed his MBA at Northeastern University.
Eric and his wife, Elizabeth, lived in Ballard when their children, Hayden (18) and Noah (15), were born. They later moved to Woodinville before relocating to Bainbridge Island in 2022. Eric currently serves as the Director of Operations at Far Bank (Sage Fly Rods) and resides in the Meadowmeer neighborhood.
Drew Marlar – Vice President
Drew Marlar recently joined the Board of Directors as Vice President in March 2025. Drew earned his Bachelor of Arts from Loyola University in 1992 and his Juris Doctor with honors from the University of Florida College of Law in 1996. After 28 years of practice as a finance and commercial real estate attorney, he is working his dream job as a full time scuba dive instructor. Drew is a member of the adult rowing team and lives near the boathouse with his husband Bryan and his dog Chuck.
Lisa Mudgett – Junior Parent Co-Liaison
Lisa Mudgett is a Seattle native and Holy Names rowing alumna, now living on Bainbridge Island with her three boys, including Owen, a sophomore BIR varsity junior rower. Lisa is an Actuary with Regence Blue Shield, with over 20 years of healthcare analytics and leadership experience. When she’s not traveling with BIR to regattas and volunteering in the Regatta Kitchen, Lisa can be found hiking Bainbridge Island trails with her husband, Dan, or working out at Elevate gym. She also enjoys reading, knitting, baking, and couch time with her dog, Piper.
Paige Murphy – Junior Rower Co-Liaison
Paige, a member of the Junior Girls team, has been rowing since 8th grade. For Paige, rowing is unique in its demand for teamwork and synchronization, as she explains: “You really have to mesh with everyone on your team, and you’re only as good as your boat is.” Her journey highlights one of the true gifts of rowing—its accessibility to newcomers who discover the sport later and still have plenty of time to develop their talent.
Through hard work, a sense of fun, and an adventurous spirit, Paige has transformed from a novice 8th grader into a key member of her team, being the lead rower in many varsity boats in just a few years. Her focused effort, love for being out on the water, and unflagging support of her teammates has made her quickly into a very accomplished athlete.
Oscar Aitchison Tirman – Junior Rower Co-Liaison
Oscar, a Junior Boys Team member, has been rowing since 8th grade and is now a rising senior. Rowing has been a transformative experience for him, offering purpose during tough times and forging lifelong friendships. At BIR, Oscar has found a supportive community where teammates grow together and help one another overcome challenges. He describes it as “a place I call home, where kindness and acceptance abound.”
Oscar’s dedication and positive energy have earned him admiration from both his peers and coaches. Known for his eagerness to step into leadership roles, he brings a mindset focused on performance and growth to every boat he rows in. His strong sense of teamwork and commitment make him a fantastic representative for the Junior team on the board.
Our 2025 Board Members Here’s the full list of our dedicated board members, including those returning for another term and our newly welcomed members. Let’s give a warm welcome to our new members and a heartfelt thank you to those continuing their invaluable contributions!
We’re excited to announce that Gabriela Pinto will be transitioning into the role of Co-Development Officer, teaming up with Jennifer for 2025. Gabriela’s support throughout 2024 was invaluable in advancing key development efforts, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact of her continued contributions in this new shared role.
| NAME | ROLE |
| Jennifer Ames-Karreman | Co-Development Officer |
| Andrew Block | Junior Parents Co-Liaison |
| Sheelagh Carleton | Community Engagement & Scholarships |
| Erik Ludwig | Co-Facilities Chair |
| Ben Drury | Safety Officer |
| Kim Dalan | Adult Programs Liaison |
| Brandon Fleet | Equipment Committee Chair |
| John Foy | Co-Facilities Chair |
| Kayla Holbeck | Secretary |
| Kathy Kalstrup | President |
| Kris Kutchera | Past President |
| Drew Marlar | Vice President |
| Lisa Mudgett | Junior Parents Co-Liaison |
| Paige Murphy | Junior Rower Representative (term starts 6/15/25) |
| Grace Payne | Junior Rower Representative (term ends 6/15/25) |
| Gabriela Pinto | Co-Development Officer |
| Scott Roesch | Treasurer |
| Oscar Aitchison Tirman | Junior Rower Representative (term starts 6/15/25) |
With Gratitude to Our Departing Board Members
As we welcome new faces to the BIR Board of Directors, we also want to take a moment to express our heartfelt gratitude to those who are stepping down from their roles. Your dedication, time, and passion have been instrumental in shaping BIR and helping us navigate growth and success.
Your contributions have left a lasting impact on our organization and the community we serve, and we are profoundly grateful for your leadership and support. While you may be leaving the board, you will always remain a valued part of the BIR family.
Thank you for your commitment to rowing and our mission—we couldn’t have done it without you!
| NAME | ROLES |
| Jill Bamburg | President |
| Celia Clark | At Large |
| Melanie Edenholm | Retired & moved to the accounting role June 2024 |
| Stacey Nordgren | Secretary |
| Grace Payne | To retire 6/14/2025 |
| Joanie Ransom | Junior Parent Co-Liaison |
Upcoming Events
Upcoming Events
Swing into Spring with BIR’s Dance Series
Join us for the next event in BIR’s Swing Dance Series on Monday, April 21, 7:00–10:00 PM! The night begins with a 30-minute beginner lesson followed by open dancing. No experience necessary—just bring your enthusiasm! This pay-what-you-can event benefits BIR’s scholarship program. With instruction from BIR parent Alex Harui and guest instructors, it’s a fun way to connect with the Bainbridge Island community. If you can’t make it in April, don’t worry—our final event in the Swing Dance Series will be on May 4, 5:00–8:00 PM. And if you loved dancing in April, we’d be thrilled to see you back on the dance floor in May!
Bingo at the Boathouse – May 21, 6:00–8:00 PM
Mark your calendars for Bingo at the Boathouse, a fun evening of games, cash prizes, and community connections! Hosted in collaboration with Bainbridge Event Rentals, this event is open to all—bring your friends and family along. To learn more about this event and purchase your bingo cards, click here. We can’t wait to see you there!
Save the Date: BIR Alumni Row – July 5th
Calling all BIR alumni! Join us on July 5th for a special Alumni Row event. This is your chance to reconnect, share memories, and enjoy time on the water. Stay tuned for more details—we look forward to seeing you back at the boathouse!
rowing center news
Rowing Center News
This past quarter, our venue space has been buzzing with activity, playing a vital role in bringing the Bainbridge Island community together. We were delighted to open our doors to the community as part of Chilly Hilly, providing a warm and welcoming space for participants to gather during this beloved local tradition. In addition to supporting events like Chilly Hilly, our venue has been the setting for a variety of gatherings, including memorials, birthday celebrations, a book release event, and fundraisers. We’re also thrilled to see the space come alive with dance, from our swing dance series to member events and the upcoming Asian History Month Community Dance. Looking ahead, we’re excited to continue collaborating with the community, including hosting the Studio Tour, which has chosen our venue as a stop for both their Summer and Winter sessions. The range of activities highlights the adaptability and importance of the space as a cornerstone for connection and celebration. If you’re considering reserving the venue for your own special event, we’d be delighted to host you!
Program
Programs
12 Days of BIR Holiday Workout Event
This past December, BIR celebrated the holiday season with the 12 Days of BIR Holiday Workout, bringing together our Junior and Adult teams for a festive and fun-filled event. Decked out in ugly sweaters, over 50 members came together to share in holiday cheer, sweat through a holiday-inspired workout, and, of course, enjoy some delicious pie. The energy and camaraderie made this event unforgettable, and we’re already excited to keep this tradition going. After all, what better way to celebrate the holidays than a festive erg session with good company and a slice of pie?
BIR Ergomania – Juniors and Adults
This winter, BIR brought together our Junior and Adult teams for an exciting Ergomania event! Linking up our ergs, rowers competed in an exciting 2k challenge for juniors and a 1k challenge for adults. With family and friends cheering on the competition, the energy and excitement in the boathouse were memorable. It was a fantastic opportunity for athletes of all ages to showcase their hard work from winter training and bond through the spirit of friendly rivalry.
Junior Program News
Junior Program News
BIR vs. Lakeside Erg Scrimmage
This winter, BIR hosted Lakeside for an exciting erg scrimmage, with over 100 juniors competing in a high-energy and fun-filled event. To mark the occasion, we introduced the Lakeside/BIR Blade Trophy, launching a new tradition where the winning team takes home the trophy each year. We’re proud to share that BIR claimed victory this year, bringing the trophy home! Special thanks to the amazing parents who kept everyone fueled and energized by providing a delicious spread of food for the event. Here’s to many more years of this friendly rivalry—great work, team BIR!
Spring Racing Season Off to a Strong Start
BIR kicked off the spring racing season with an exciting scrimmage at Sammamish, featuring competitive crews from Pocock, Inglemoor, Greenlake, and Sammamish alongside our Novice and Varsity boats. The energy from these early races carried into the Covered Bridge Regatta, where BIR had an impressive showing—35 boats raced, with 10 medals overall. The team’s strong performances have fueled their momentum as they continue preparing for the upcoming Brentwood regatta.
Covered Bridge Regatta Results
adult program news
Adult Program News
The Adult programs enjoyed a productive offseason of challenging erg sessions and new “Recess” group fitness sessions in preparation for spring races and just plain old island living. February’s Learn to Erg cohort welcomed 20 new curious adults into the boathouse, many of whom are already registered to Learn to Row in the spring. This group will eventually blossom into the 2025 Novice Team and surprise us all with how quickly they catch on.
Spring Racing Starts Early – and Strong!
Spring races kicked off a month earlier than usual, with BIR sending several boats to compete at the Husky Open and Vancouver Lake Spring Sprints during the first weekend of March. All that erging paid off as our Women’s 4x took first place at the Husky Open, while at Vancouver Lake, the Women’s 4x claimed another first-place finish, and the Men’s 4x secured an impressive second place.
That strong start carried into the Covered Bridge Regatta, where both the Adult and Junior teams came together for a fantastic showing. BIR delivered great results across the board, with 9 out of 15 races medaling, a testament to the team’s dedication and growing speed on the water. A special highlight—John Christensen successfully defended his first-place 1x finish, proving his strength and consistency. With momentum building, BIR is shaping up for an exciting and competitive season ahead. Let’s see how the team continues to rise to the challenge!
Covered Bridge Results
BIR in the community
BIR in the Community
Bainbridge Island Parks & Trails Junior Team Work Party
There’s nothing like a productive work party to bring our community closer, and the March event was a resounding success! We are deeply thankful for the incredible efforts of our rowers who dedicated their time, energy, and enthusiasm to this meaningful cause. A remarkable 64 members of the BIR team collectively contributed 128 hours of community service at Waterfront Park. Their hard work not only made a lasting impact on the park but also earned a grant of $1,792 to support scholarships. Your continued support and participation are what make these moments possible. Thank you for being such a valuable part of our community and for helping make a difference for our parks and trails!
Chilly Hilly 2025
This year marked our second time supporting the beloved Chilly Hilly ride, a community event that brings thousands of cycling enthusiasts from the greater Seattle area to Bainbridge Island. We were thrilled to open our boathouse as a welcoming warming station for riders, creating a cozy spot to take a break and recharge. Additionally, thanks to the incredible efforts of our volunteers who baked and supported on the day of the event, we raised over $1,300 through baked goods sales to support our scholarship program. A huge thank-you goes out to everyone who helped make this event such a success. Your contributions and spirit are what keep our community thriving!
Spring Dance Series – A Fantastic Start! Our Spring Dance Series kicked off on March 21 with an incredible evening of fun, connection, and community spirit. We were thrilled to welcome 60 members of the Bainbridge Island community to the boathouse for this special event. This pay-what-you-can event raised $900 to support our scholarship program—thank you to everyone who contributed and made this night such a success. The energy was electric as people of all ages and dance experience joined together to swing the night away. We’re so excited to keep the momentum going with the final two events in this series on April 21 and May 4. Don’t miss your chance to dance, connect, and enjoy a memorable evening. Spread the word and come join the fun! Sign up in advance here.
development news
Development News
NEW Pocock 4+ is here!
We are thrilled to announce that the shiny new Pocock 4+ is dedicated to John Foy, a cherished member of the BIR community. John first joined BIR in 2001, the inaugural year of its existence, and has rowed on and off for nearly 25 years. He served as BIR’s Board President from 2002-2003 and has been an active member of the Board of Directors since 2014.
John’s connection to rowing extends beyond his own achievements—his daughter Jeanne was a junior rower and served as coxswain for the adult men’s boat. Among his notable rowing milestones, John was part of the first BIR boat entered at the Head of the Charles Regatta, rowing alongside Bill Richards, Dave Ward, and Russ McComb. John’s dedication and passion for BIR have shaped the organization into what it is today, and we are incredibly fortunate to have him as part of our rowing family—now and always. This beautiful boat was made possible thanks to the generous community grants from the Bainbridge Community Foundation, Rotary, BI Parks & Trails Foundation, and an additional donor gift.
Ready all, ROW!
Coming soon to BIR: a brand-new 2x is currently in the works, made possible by the incredible generosity of a donor. Stay tuned for its arrival in late Spring!
Celebrating Craftsmanship: New Artwork Installed in the Conference Room
We are thrilled to display Russ McComb’s artwork in the conference room, celebrating the timeless beauty of a Wherry—a handcrafted recreational rowing boat designed by George Pocock around 1930. This specific Wherry, likely built in 1950, boasts a fascinating history. Originally commissioned as a gift, it changed hands multiple times before finding its home at BIR. Remarkably, this boat has never touched the water and is still awaiting its final display, planned to hang from the ceiling.
With a background in naval architecture, Russ was inspired by this stunningly beautiful boat and created a Lines Plan—a 2D depiction of its 3D hull—using time-honored drafting methods. His meticulous, hand-drafted work showcases the boat’s proportions, capturing its form with exceptional precision. The framed piece currently hanging in the conference room is a Mylar print of his original draft, skillfully framed by Alec Vassiliadis.
If you’re curious to learn more about the details of a Lines Plan and how it’s drawn, Russ would be delighted to share his insights. A heartfelt thank you to Russ for his incredible artwork and to Alec for his expert craftsmanship in framing and mounting it.
BIR Year End Celebration & Dream Big Auction November 8, 2025
Mark your calendars to join fellow rowers, donors, and community supporters for a memorable evening filled with camaraderie, amazing food, fun, and a lively auction at the Stan Pocock Rowing Center!
2nd Annual BIR Invitational Fall Regatta- Brown Bear Cup
We are thrilled to announce the return of the BIR Invitational Fall Regatta- Brown Bear Cup this year, proudly presented through the support of our Brown Bear Sponsorship. Mark your calendars for September 28, and join us for this exciting event that brings our community together on and off the water. A heartfelt thank-you to Brown Bear for their continued sponsorship and unwavering support of our mission, making this regatta and its impact on our community possible. We look forward to seeing you there and will share more details soon. Let’s make the 2nd annual Brown Bear Cup an unforgettable day!
