What is it?

The Whitehall Spirit® Rowing Club is an innovative new water sport franchise, ideal for current and future economic conditions. It is a social entrepreneurial type of business that fits the triple bottom line of people, planet and profit. Businesses that are affordable and contribute fun and healthful activities are leading edge. This franchise offers slide seat open water rowing, a new sport that is growing in popularity. To gain a quick perspective please visit the Victoria rowing club at WHRClub.com or the Los Angeles club at WhitehalldelRey.com .

Each franchise is a complete package that includes training and software as well as a fleet of club boats, club docks, installation and other features necessary to operate the business. The franchise founders, Harold Aune and Marie Hutchinson have an extensive background in all things marine and for over 25 years have manufactured the world’s finest rowing boats under the Whitehall Spirit® brand.
The Whitehall Spirit® Rowing Club franchise embraces the concept of collaborative economics and operates much like a time share although there is no member’s ownership commitment or even annual dues involved. It satisfies the three main problems of owning a boat: the high cost of purchase, a spot to keep it and finding time to use it. When new members first join up they receive orientation in club procedures and rowing skills on an as needed basis. They soon become confident, fitter, calmer, and happier while exploring local waterways and getting out in nature in fresh clean air. Club members are from all ages and walks of life from professional rowers to complete newbies. Clubs specifically target the over 40 group, who often are in need of ways to regain or achieve fitness levels while relieving stress. The automated online booking system means a boat is ready for a member to go rowing on short notice or it can be booked well ahead. The boats are sleek, fast and stable, fully equipped and a joy to row. .

Why own a Club?

Owning a Whitehall Spirit® Rowing Club means you enjoy a “turn-key” operation that operates somewhat like a time share and in many locations requires no management present on the club docks. This minimizes costs and time commitment.
Club owners receive initial in depth training and ongoing support. “Your success is our success and we will endeavor to assist you to make your club stand out as a premier innovative new water sport business in your community”

- Harold Aune & Marie Hutchinson