Coastal Rowing

[PaulG]

Here's a link to the 2018 Coastal Rowing Championship videos. Ben Booth of Westport, MA, representing the US came in ninth in the men's singles. I exchanged emails with Ben about the race and he was very happy with his finish. I believe he was the only rower over 40. Ben confirmed that the race to the first buoy is critical. You have to get separation from the pack or you will always be fighting from behind. The boats in front of you can hold their line and it's your responsibility to get around them. If they actively obstruct you they can be penalized but that doesn't help you. In addition, random crashes by other boats can mess up your race. I'm not sure I like those rules because there are too many factors affecting the race that you cannot control.

https://www.eurovisionsports.tv/fisa/

[PaulG]

Here's another video about coastal rowing from Row2k that explains a little bit more. It also has an interview with Ben Booth. This is a very telegenic rowing sport and probably has a future as an Olympic event. The crashes turn me off as a rower but are exciting as a spectator.

http://www.row2k.com/video/Coastal-Rowing/25722/

[Cyclist2]

Thanks for that, Paul!

I'll watch those a few times, looks intriguing. Also makes my forays out on Hood Canal in my Aero seem rather tame.