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Rowing

The style and rhythm of the rower's strokes are a series of clearly distinguishable actions that reflect a pattern of continuous movement and fluid motion. This entire sequence of rhythmical, balanced movements is repeated 32 to 40 times per minute depending on conditions, strategy, and length of the race.

Categories
Boats compete in two basic categories: sculling and sweep rowing. Both men's and women's races are rowed on a 2,000-meter course no matter what the event.

In sweep rowing, two, four, or eight crewmembers sit facing the stern of the boat, each rower pulling one oar. In some of the pairs and fours events, the vessel is steered by a non-rowing "coxswain" (pronounced cox-n) who sits in the stern of the boat, facing the crew. The job of the coxswain is to steer the boat, decide tactics, and establish and maintain the speed and rhythm of the strokes of the rowers.

The other form of rowing, in which no coxswain is used, is called "sculling," or "scull racing." It is performed singly, by a pair, or by four rowers. Each rower, or "sculler," faces the stern and pulls a pair or oars.

Competition
Olympic racing employs a double-elimination system, whereby each rower or crew gets at least two chances to compete. Competitors go through a series of elimination heats until only six crews or boats remain for the finals.

News, History, and Fast Facts

  • Row on over to Athens 2004 for more information and the Olympic venues.
  • Get news and notes on the national level at U.S. Rowing.
  • The USOC site is a one-stop source for Olympic rowing history, a rowing rulebook, and a convenient glossary.
  • The I.O.C. serves up news reports, an overview of rowing and explanations of rowing terminology and special equipment.
  • Check out the international rowing scene on the International Rowing Federation's (FISA) Web site.
  • What does physics have to do with it?

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General Sports Links
Olympians will compete in dozens of sports this summer. Even though Gateway to the Summer Games can't feature them all, you can learn about each and every one by visiting the sites listed below.


Portions of the above text were excerpted from Share the Olympic Dream--Volume II.
© 2001 by Griffin Publishing Group/United States Olympic Committee.

For information on purchasing Griffin materials, please visit the Griffin Publishing Group Web site at http://www.griffinpublishing.com.

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