About Us

Gord Henry

Fluidesign founder Gord Henry started rowing in 1975. As a member of the Canadian National Team from '81-'88, Gord competed in the single and 4- at the 1988 Summer Olympics in Seoul, South Korea. He was the Canadian National Team Co-ordinator for 6 years, including the 1992 and 1996 Olympics in Barcelona, Spain and Atlanta, Georgia where Canadian rowers won a total of 11 medals.

Gord then worked in the rowing shell industry for 5 years, including a 1-year stint managing a project for Diamond Aircraft, a composite aircraft manufacturer.

Fluidesign History

Fluidesign was officially founded in 1999 and began selling its now renowned singles in 2000. Fluid, as it's commonly referred to in the rowing world, is the fastest growing racing shell manufacturer in the industry.

Expansions in 2003 to include doubles and pairs, and once again in 2008 to include quads/fours have kept Fluid at the forefront of the industry with a goal of one day offering a full line of shells that includes an 8.

Fluidesign is what it is today because of Gord's experience with Diamond Aircraft. It was there that Gord managed a revolutionary racing shell project. His team started from scratch, and in 8 months had a single that was not only in use, but winning races. When the decision was made to suspend the project, Gord was persuaded to expand on his experience from the aviation industry. Fluidesign was born.

The laminate construction and bow mount rigging were unique at the time to high performance singles. Overcoming scepticism and a conservative market were obstacles that were faced, but the growth was signifigant.

As seasons passed and results became obvious, serious rowers began embracing the concept, and support quickly elevated.

Eventually, Fluidesign would become the best selling single in North America. Today, the competition embraces our rigging and design. Our influences can be seen in the boats of many of our competitors in the industry.

With future aspirations in mind, Fluid will continue to add product to their line, including adding bigger boats. Reminiscent of its own cutting-edge complexion, Fluidesign remains open to all areas of the composite industry and looks ahead to embracing other products with their technology.

Philosophy

To build the fastest, lightest and most durable racing shells in the rowing world, and keeping them affordable.

Fluidesign uses their knowledge and vast experience of the industry to change the way certain materials are used, make the many components of the boat more effective, and as a result, build faster, more durable shells that bring more value to the product.

Constant Development

Fluidesign performs hours of collaboration and brainstorming after weekend regattas that lead to the steadfast development of their line of boats. By identifying weak areas and sources of concern and listening to customer feedback, Fluid is able to continually examine the product and find ways to improve. Consulting with employees, rowers, suppliers and experts in materials is the only way to improve every aspect of the product. We take rowers seriously, and we listen.