Tabor Rowing Team unharmed after boat accident in South Watuppa Pond

FALL RIVER — What should’ve been a routine practice for the Tabor Academy Rowing Team ended up becoming an emergency situation and now an internal review of the accident is currently underway by Tabor officials.

The rowers and faculty gathered at South Watuppa Pond in Fall River on Saturday, March 29 where the pond officials and coaches deemed the conditions to be “appropriate for rowing,” according to Tabor Communications Director Stacy Jagodowski. As winds unexpectedly shifted and waves began to build, the boats filled with water.

The five Tabor coaches present made the decision to turn around and return to shore upon seeing the weather conditions worsen.

Three out of the five boats began to fill with water as they attempted to make it to land.

“29 students went into the water,” said Jagodowski.

The team was out of the water with no major injuries by the time emergency responders arrived at the scene.

“We rescued ourselves. The coaches assisted with launch boats; everyone was out of the water by the time that local responders arrived,” said Jagodowski.

While emergency responders were on site, Watuppa Rowing Center posted a statement on Facebook about the incident.

“All rowers are safe! A visiting rowing program was training on South Watuppa Pond today. Boats took on water. All rowers are safely out of the water. First responders are on site and providing care,” said the rowing center via Facebook.

Several individuals reported “feeling unsettled by the incident” in the aftermath which Jagodowski says is to be expected after such an event.

“We are proud of how students and coaches represented themselves and our school in a moment of unexpected challenge. We thank local responders and neighbors for their assistance,” said Jagodowski.