01/06/2026
What a meaningful Exhibition Row for Survivor Rowing Club New Orleans!
As we jump into the 2026 rowing season, we want to take a minute to highlight a very meaningful race that capped out 2025 season.
Survivor Rowing Club had the honor of racing at the Louisiana State Championship Regatta in a special 2500m exhibition row alongside the Xavier University rowing team. The crew finished the Industrial Canal course in 12:43, but this race held a far deeper meaning.
We rowed in honor of Jittaun Burgess, the aunt of .rowing athlete Mekhi Akonner, who recently lost her battle with breast cancer. Mekhi paid tribute to her by leading our 8 as stroke seat, and his family stood on the bank together, cheering him on and celebrating her life. It was a powerful and emotional moment for everyone.
Mekhi was joined by his Xavier teammates Diamond Smith and Taylor Kentish. Taylor shared why this row meant so much to her:
“I chose to race with the Survivor Rowing Club because this fight is personal to me. My mom is celebrating 10 years in remission, and my grandmother lost her battle with breast cancer. Rowing alongside survivors is my way of honoring their strength and the strength of every fighter. Their resilience inspires me, and it’s an honor to row in the boat with them.”
A heartfelt thank you to for partnering with us for this meaningful exhibition row. We are also grateful to .rowing for inviting us to race and for being such supportive hosts.
It was a special day on the water and a reminder of the strength, love, and community that carry us forward.
