From being a simple form of transport, rowing has developed into a popular international sport, with men, women and juniors from all over the world competing in the various events. So what are the origins of the sport and what happens in the world of rowing today?
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A Brief HistoryThe beginnings of rowing as a sportBefore the invention of motor driven vessels, rowing was a necessary form of propulsion for boats. Larger boats, such as the Roman and Egyptian galleys needed lots of oarsmen. Galley races were among some of the first rowing races held.
The development of rowing as a sport
1715: The Doggett's Coat and Badge Race, the oldest rowing contest in the world, was first held on the River Thames and has been held annually ever since.
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Rowing TodayAlthough rowing is a popular competitive sport, it can be enjoyed outside of competition, as a way of keeping fit within a natural environment.
Oarsmen and Crews
There are eight classes of boat. Five are for sweep-oared rowing (the rower uses one oar), three are for sculling (the rower uses two oars). The classes are:
Oarsmen
Oarsmen are grouped according to age. These are:
In addition to these age categories, a lightweight category for men and women is recognised by FISA (the international governing body). For this, the average weight of a men's crew (excluding coxswain) must not exceed 70 kg. and individual oarsman must not weigh more than 72.5kg.
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Competitive RowingYou can join a club and take part in competitive rowing from about the age of 10. [See Get Started: Joining a Club for more information]
Races and Events Some traditional races have a set course. For example, the University Boat Race between Oxford and Cambridge always takes place on the Thames between Putney and Mortlake. The distance is 4 miles 374 yds (6.779km.) International regattas and competitions have events that are held on standard, straight courses between 1,000 and 2,000 metres but it is not essential that courses are straight. Non-standard courses for sprints may be shorter. Head of the River courses for rowing eights are usually longer. The longest annual rowing race is the Tour du Lac Leman in Geneva for coxed fours. The five man crew take turns as cox over the 99 miles (160 km) course.
Races and Events for Juniors Other junior events include the National Championships, the National Schools Regatta and the World Junior Rowing Championships.
Regattas Officials
Officials at an event include:
Winners The winner in a race is the oarsman whose bow is first to cross the finish line, provided the boats start in line with each other. In other races, the judge checks the time taken by each crew (or single scull) to cover the course, to make sure the winner and runners up are placed in the proper order.
Governing Bodies
FISA is responsible for the sport at international level. 103 national associations and federations are affiliated to FISA.
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