Dave and Cindy Shotwell were a rowing family. They met at the University of Washington in 1971, where Dave and Cindy both rowed. For a time, Dave coached the women's intramural rowing program there, which included Cindy. They married in the early 1980s, moved to Sacramento and had two children, Christoper and Sarah. Both children rowed for Capital Crew. Dave and Cindy never lost their love of rowing and were regulars at the Aquatic Center.
In 2003, Cindy was diagnosed with a brain tumor. After battling cancer for twenty-eight months, Cindy died on Sept 20, 2006. Dave wanted to honor her and help the club, so he proposed that if the club could raise half the money for a new boat, he would match it. "The club members were very supportive, got behind the effort, and raised the money," said Shotwell.
The club received the new Resolute in 2008. Dave organized a memorial service at the Aquatic Center’s Founder’s Grove. The boat was christened the Cynthia Heiser Shotwell. After the ceremony, the Shotwell went out on its maiden voyage.
At that time, the Shotwell was the newest and primary men's boat for practices and races. "The men's team and mixed teams won many medals in sprint and head races with the Shotwell,” recalls Rick Jones. Rowers continue to use the Shotwell for practice and recreational rows.
Reflecting on Cindy's legacy, Dave said, "Cindy would be thrilled knowing that she has been remembered in a way that has allowed so many people to enjoy the sport she loved." Her memory, embodied in the Shotwell, continues to support rowers today.
Dave and his wife, Lisa, live in Bozeman, Montana. He reports that he still rows and now goes out in a drift boat on the Yellowstone River.
This article, the first in a series, is a testament to our community's rich tradition of boat naming. It aims to preserve the history of how our beloved boats received their names. Contributors include Rick Jones, Barb Ostrander, Dee Stayner, and Delena Bratton.
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