General Information:

There are typically two experience level classifications for rowers: novice and experienced. "Experienced," in high school rowing, is also typically, but not necessarily, broken up into the Varsity and Junior Varsity levels. At each of these levels, there are weight classes:
fly weight, light weight, open weight. All of the rowers, though not necessarily the coxswaine, competing in the race must fall into the classification under which the boat is registered to race.

The boat is broken up as seen in the following diagram:

Boat Classifications:

Safety:

Safety is always an important factor to consider, whether one is an experienced rower or a novice. Precautions must be taken to ensure the safety of all rowers in the boat in order to avoid dangerous situations.

The best precaution for all rowers is wearing a PDF: Personal Floatation Device. These usually come in bright "fanny packs" worn by each rower. In the event that the rower is ejected from the boat or the boat takes on too much water or crashes, the individual simply pulls a chord and a life vest will inflate from the pack. Young rowers are typically required to wear these at all times, but they are common among all rowers during times when the river's flow is above 40,000. Also, in the event that a rower "catches a crab" (his oar becomes stuck under the current, creating enough force to launch the rower from the shell), the remaining rowers should release said rower's oar from his oar lock and float it towards him, as it can also be used as an emergency floatation device.

Note: Links and information courtesy of Three Rivers Rowing.

Questions? Email Lani Gray at lgray@email.com

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