Toss a Rowing Boat
When a boat can be sixty feet long, getting it from the boathouse to the water safely is not such an easy task. While every crew will use different terminology, the steps are essentially the same. And remember! Every step should be done on command. One person cannot act by themselves, and no matter what you think you should be doing, always listen to your coxswain (or stroke seat, if there isn't one). Question them verbally, while still doing what they say.
Steps
With a Dock
- Stay quiet. One person (usually the coxswain, or the stroke if there is no coxswain) gives the instructions, and they are the only person who should be talking.
- Walk the boat down to the end of the dock. Some crews will make sure that the skeg (also known as a keel or rudder) goes beyond the end of the dock so that they can be sure it doesn't hit. Others don't. Listen to your coaches and coxswains.
- Put the boat up over your heads. You will need to put one hand on each side of the boat and raise it so your arms are straight.
- Step to the edge of the dock.
- Roll the boat down to your waists.
- Lower it gently into the water, making sure it doesn't hit the dock.
Without a Dock
- Stay quiet. One person (usually the coxswain, or the stroke if there is no coxswain) gives the instructions, and they are the only person who should be talking.
- Walk the boat parallel to the shore.
- Step sideways into the water. The coxswain should have you go until they are certain that the skeg (aka keel or rudder) will not hit the bottom.
- Put the boat up over your heads. You will need to put one hand on each side of the boat and raise it so your arms are straight.
- Roll the boat down to your waists.
- Lower it gently into the water.
Tips
- For a launch without a dock, remove your socks and tuck them into your bra strap or spandex. Put them back on once you are in the boat.
Warnings
- Complete the final part of the movement with your legs! Otherwise this can be a great way to injure your back out.
- These steps can be different depending on a number of things, including (but not limited to): The shape of your dock, the experience of your rowers, your geographic region, and whether you row in a lake, canal, or someplace else.
