Trish Jackson: Rowing Manatee To Success

Trish Jackson and company (Trish far right)

BRADENTON -- Not every county is lucky enough to have a Trish Jackson. That's why we, in Manatee County, have a Trish Jackson Day. The First Lady of Manatee County rowing recruits, trains, leads, coaches and inspires young people and adults in the art of rowing and the skills for success.

Jackson came with about 60 of her crew, that would be her student rowing team, before the BOCC Tuesday for a well-deserved proclamation.Trish began the county's first high school rowing program at Palmetto and also coaches at Southeast and Manatee High Schools.

Trish started her quest by raising over $40,000 for the public high school rowing program, then planned and designed a summer rowing camp called "Long Skinny Boat Camp." Her efforts got the attention of local rowing aficionados and fans of the sport, then she formed a team of volunteers that assist in the maintenance and activities at the Ft. Hamer Rowing Facility. 

At Tuesday's celebration, proclaiming October 9, 2012 as Trish Jackson Day, Trish couldn't say enough about her team of champions and the champion team of volunteers that made it all happen. Her humble and giving spirit seems to have no boundries, and that is just what she conveys to all of her students about their abilities. 

The people of Manatee County thank you Trish Jackson for giving them even more to be proud of, while appreciating that our kids have someone with your skills and heart to look up to.