Nostalgia and the Art of Restoration
We are dedicated to preserving the heritage of a wooden rowing shell that was key to a winning era in Northeastern's Men's Rowing history - The Corsair
Craftsmanship • Heritage • Championship • Inspiration • Dedication • Excellence • Performance • Comradery• Nostalgic Display
Preserving the Donoratico Corsair
Project Corsair is about the History, Heritage, Legacy and Nostalgia of past Glory Days of Northeastern Men’s Rowing through a boat that carried its men to unique success. Today, some of those alumni men are restoring the “Corsair” to its original condition to honor the NU Rowing Heritage. This will inspire future generations to excel for the love of the sport and what it means to be a Husky oarsman.
The Corsair History - A Rich Donoratico Pedigree
The Corsair, built in the 1960's and rowed at Northeastern University from 1972 to 1976, may be the only Donoratico from that era left in the US.
Like the Donoratico 8-man shell Doc Riggall that the U.S. Men's Olympic Team used to bring home Gold at the 1964 Tokyo Games, the Corsair is of the same vintage and whose mastery of design helped NU win two EARC Eastern Sprints championships in 1972 and 1973 and other medals during the early 1970's.
A boat design known as difficult to row, those that could row the Corsair proved it was a winning design.
Join us in discovering the history of the Corsair as it journeyed from a champion to today deserving a full restoration for rowing history.
The Heart for Restoration
Restoration - putting something back to its original state
Restoring a wooden masterpiece like the Corsair requires patience, skill, and a deep respect for the craftsmanship of the past. A few dedicated alumni and Finger Lakes Boating Museum restorers are committed to bring back the original luster of this historic racing shell.
1973 Eastern Sprints Champions - Northeastern
The Future of the Corsair
What do you do with a restored 60+ year old wooden racing shell?
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You marvel and respect the craftsmanship of yesteryear skills
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You row it - would you like to row it?
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You display it for the world to see - special display at NU
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You inspire current athletes with its successful history
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You inspire many through stories of changed lives and programs
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You use it to raise money to help elevate young athletes to win
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You give it the grace it deserves to last another 60+ years
The swing, rhythm and power of the crew, translated to the effortless speed of the wooden Corsair