North Palm Beach, FL — South Florida has become one of the nation’s most sought-after places to live and work, attracting professionals, entrepreneurs, and new residents from major markets like New York and California. Drawn by quality of life and a strong business climate, Palm Beach County continues to position itself as a magnet for talent and opportunity.
Against this backdrop, the North Palm Beach Rowing Club (NPBRC) will host its second annual gala fundraiser on February 27 to support the build of a state-of-the-art rowing boathouse—a project designed to enhance the local waterfront while delivering long-term community and economic value.
More than a facility, the boathouse represents a strategic investment in Palm Beach County’s future. It will expand youth and adult programming, support athletic excellence, attract regional competitions, and position North Palm Beach among the country’s most respected rowing communities—traditionally found in New England and other historic hubs of the sport.
“This is about more than bricks and boats,” said [club leadership]. “It’s about creating a permanent home for opportunity, discipline, and belonging on our waterfront.”
A Destination Boathouse for Palm Beach County
In elite rowing communities, boathouses serve as year-round centers for training, competition, and community connection. NPBRC’s vision brings that same standard to Palm Beach County.
The boathouse is scheduled to break ground in Q1 of 2026 and aims to enable program growth, improve athlete performance, and establish a visible commitment to youth development, wellness, and waterfront stewardship—an increasingly attractive asset as residents and new residents seek active, community-centered lifestyles.
“This boathouse will be a destination—not just for rowing, but for community pride,” said a board member. “It puts Palm Beach County on the national rowing map.”
Honoring a Coach Who Changed Lives
This year’s gala also serves as a tribute to Scott McKee, NPBRC’s head coach, who passed away unexpectedly on October 28, 2025.
A former U.S. National Team rower and respected collegiate coach at Rutgers and Columbia University, McKee joined NPBRC in 2024 and became one of the driving forces behind the club’s success. Under his leadership, athletes earned state titles and national qualifications while developing confidence, discipline, and belief in themselves.
Coach McKee’s legacy—rooted in effort, humility, and heart—will live on through the boathouse and the athletes it serves.
An Olympic Voice of Inspiration
Adding to the significance of the evening, the gala will feature a special keynote by Oliver Zeidler, Olympic champion, who is flying in specifically to support the NPBRC community.
Zeidler is an Olympic gold medalist and one of the most dominant single scullers in the world, whose relentless discipline, precision, and resilience (captured in the documentary Single Minded), have translated into championship-level performance on the global stage.
Zeidler’s message will focus on resilience, teamwork, and the quiet power of consistency, values that mirror both the sport of rowing and the legacy Coach McKee instilled in his athletes. His presence underscores the club’s growing national visibility and the seriousness of its long-term vision.
For young rowers in attendance, the opportunity to hear directly from an Olympic champion represents a moment of inspiration that can shape ambition for years to come.
Built on Grit, Gratitude, and Growth
Founded as a grassroots effort by a small group of dedicated rowers, North Palm Beach Rowing Club has grown into one of the region’s most inclusive and community-centered programs. Today, NPBRC serves middle school novices, competitive high-school athletes, adult masters, and families who have made rowing part of their everyday lives.
“When people support NPBRC, they’re not just supporting a sport,” organizers say. “They’re supporting our community as well as the confidence, character, and lifelong skills of our youth.”
Event Details & Ticket Information
North Palm Beach Rowing Club Gala Fundraiser
February 27 6pm
North Palm Beach, Florida
Keynote: Oliver Zeidler, Olympic Gold Medalist Rower
Tickets & sponsorship opportunities HERE.
About North Palm Beach Rowing Club
North Palm Beach Rowing Club is a nonprofit, community-driven organization dedicated to making the sport of rowing accessible, inclusive, and impactful for athletes of all ages and abilities. Through discipline, teamwork, and steady effort, NPBRC builds strong athletes—and even stronger people—on and off the water. Learn more at www.npbrc.com.
