the good

9
S t a r t i n g & R a c i n g
9.1

9.2
the good
S t a r t i n g

Introduction

Warm Up
& R a c i n g
9 p5

p5

9.3 At the Start p10

What does it mean to sit ready? 12
R u l e 6 6 - T h e S t a r t i n g P r o c e d u r e 13
Overview of Starting Procedure – Held Start 14
By-Law to Rule 66 15

9.4 Racing p18

R u l e 7 0 - R e s p o n s i b i l i t y o f t h e R o w e r s 23
R u l e 7 1 - I n t e r f e r e n c e 23
R u l e 7 4 - O b j e c t i o n s 23
Motivating 28
T h e R a c e P l a n 32
R e g a t t a C h e c k l i s t 39

Quick Glossary p40

The Good Coxswain knows... p42

 9
“The harder I work, the good
the luckier I get. ”
A n o n y mo u s
9 . 1 I N T R O D U C T I O N
It is race day and you are now on the water. You have applied your race day plans
and routines outlined in Booklet #8 Race Day – Preparation. You have a crew
that is race ready. You have the answers to the four very important questions:
Where? When? How? and Why?

It is now time to “Just Do It!”

Nothing has been left to chance the familiar routine continues. Nearly all
things you now do, as you set out, are predictable and known due to the
implementation of a routine at training and the advanced discussions held
between coach, coxswain and crew prior to racing and the regatta day.
The crew will, nevertheless, be nervous and excited –it is only daunting in

anticipation not in the doing.

9 . 2 W A R M U P
The good coxswain will be the familiar voice of reason and calm; quickly settling
the crew into the pre-race warm up routine. He will command their full attention
and gain their immediate response. If the coxswain gains neither of these then he
will be quick to seek greater focus from his crewmembers. It is more than likely
that the crewmember that is not focused during the warm up will not be focused
during the race. The good coxswain is best advised to do something about poor
focus and attention prior to racing. Some common measures are:

Overuse the crewmember’s name.

Demand more urgent responses.

Stop the boat and start the warm up again.

Inform the crew of the problem.

Repeat the command until it is done to the coxswain’s satisfaction.

 9 . 2 W A R M U P cont ’d...

The warm up is not just to make the heart and circulatory system ready
to deliver oxygen to the muscles or to give the body its full range of
movement; it is also designed to arouse the crew’s response to
the psychological demands of racing. Is the crew alert, listening, and
sensitive to the boat? Are their movements free-flowing or strained,
stressed or relaxed, comfor table or tense? The warm up must Often, I wo
uld push off
be completed in expectation that it will not only reflect the physical from the ba
regatta da n k on
demands of the race but also the psychological condition of the rower. y feeling lik
e I had forg
something. I otten
The coxswain, through the use of the warm up routine, must be able lived in fea
r that I wo
to stimulate the crew to be race ready. The 30 minutes that is normally only discove uld
allowed prior to racing for a warm up should be exacting and proceed r what it wa
s when the
from limited movements with lower rating, to the full range of movement began. I spe race
nt so much
at higher rating - all the time building the crew in confidence. time worryi
it might be ng what
on the way
The warm up will include drills that may emphasise body movement, up the cours
I neglected e that
boat balance and boat acceleration. These elements will be used to “turn the crew. I
n the end t
the crew on” and have them tuned into the boat’s movement through the thing I had he only
forgotten w
 water and the race ahead. It will culminate in “start pieces” i.e. the first as to make
ten or fifteen strokes taken at the start of the race. I was alert sure
and that th
e crew was
Whatever the warm up routine, it is advisable to have it memorised, if With a chec ready.
klist I gave
not written down (a logbook would be ideal), while still in training. myself the
to relax an chance
d think abo
ut what we
doing and n were
ot what I m
ight have fo
rgotten.
Tess Harper
, Coxswain
 9 . 2 W A R M U P cont ’d... A n e x amp l e o f a warm up f or
a co x e d f our wit h l e ss t h an
T H R EE y e ars e x p e ri e nc e :
The coxswain should be very sure that the crew’s warm up is suitable for
the prevailing conditions and venue. 30 minutes prior to race:
Steady progression toward full strokes through drill application.
If it is very windy and choppy it may not be appropriate to try certain drills.
If the course does not have a separate warm up area or there is not enough BOW PAIR - Rowing square blade
room for “start pieces” at the top of the course, or stopping points along Arms only (10 strokes), back chock - arms and body (10 strokes), 1⁄4 slide
the outside of the course, be sure to make alternate plans prior to getting (10 strokes), 1⁄2 slide (10 strokes), 3⁄4 slide (10 strokes), full slide (10 strokes),
on the water. full slide – square blade – inside hand behind the back (10 strokes), full slide
– square blade – inside hand flat palm on handle (10 strokes), both hands –
(Be warned: the warm-up routine opposite may not be appropriate on full slide - 1⁄4 feather (10 strokes), delayed feather (10 strokes).
courses where the full crew is required to row at all times to avoid
retarding the progress of other crews to the start.)
STERN PAIR - Repeat as above for bow pair

10-15 minutes prior to race:

Crew combines movements at higher ratings to accelerate boat.

FULL CREW
Weighted roll-up to catch position and hold, weighted roll-up with three
strokes, weighted roll-up to catch position then hold before commencing
start sequence @ conservative rating (10 strokes), start sequence @ race
pace (10 strokes). Remember to comply with course traffic direction rules
 when completing the above.

5 minutes prior to race:

Crew is ready and available for starter marshal’s instructions.

All crews are in the start area (beside the course or behind the start in a
marshalling area) ready to be called to the line. Opportunity for the coxswain
to ask all crewmembers to check that gates are secure, foot stretchers and
rigging are secure, correct uniform is being worn (remove outer garments).
The coxswain ascertains whether all crewmembers can hear the starter and
know the start sequence from observation of preceding races.
Once in the marshalling area all crew talk is to stop – the coxswain should be the
only one who speaks. Crews should listen intently for the starter’s or marshal’s
instructions. The expectation is that these instructions will not come via the
coxswain (although necessity may, in difficult circumstances, dictate that the
coxswain issue limited commands – the coxswain nevertheless, is expected to
defer to the race marshal). The crew will respond immediately to marshalling
instructions without waiting for the coxswain to issue the same commands.

2 minutes prior to race: Crew is sitting at the starting line, ready.

Alignment of crews begin, starter begins roll-call of all crews competing in

the race. Coxswain makes certain that boat is straight and will stay straight
during the start sequence. If the coxswain is unable to position the boat by the
beginning of the ‘2 minute’ announcement the crew may be given a ‘warning’
that may result in a false start being awarded against the crew.
9 . 3 at t h e start
The start position may change according to the length of the race
(normally determined by the class of participants). Different length
courses used are normally 1000, 1500 and 2000 metres. The shorter
distances and river courses mainly use a “side” start as a fixed starting The one t
installation is not used. That is, the starter is stationed on the bank to hing I find
on the sta
crews is t rt with no
the side of the course. When performing a “side” start, the starter is hat if you vice
have bow
sometimes required to perform the aligning duties as well. The coxswain stern pair pair touc
should be mindful of the fact that crews furthest from the starter may sitting rea hing it and
dy with sq
have more difficulty hearing the starter than crews closer to that bank. get grief uare blad
rather th es, you
an respon
The coxswain and the crew must be extra attentive. throw the se and it
boat off a will often
straight li
However, in races over 2000 metres on championship courses, the ne.
starter is positioned in the centre approximately 40-50 metres behind Also when
backing it
the aligned crews and 3-6 metres above the starting pontoon. In these down, I ge
aren’t ba t the row
circumstances an aligner will be used to make sure all crews are evenly cking to w ers who
hat I call
placed on the starting line. the leadin “over fea
g edge of ther” i.e.
the blade
It is expected that once a crew is in the starter’s hands that all the water doesn’t c
. This make atch
matters of alignment fall to the starter or his aligner. The coxswain s the boa
backing a t easier f 11
is expected to remain quiet so that the starter/aligner can be heard. nd once a or those
gain avoid
Nevertheless, if the boat is being buffeted by wind or being pushed from deviations s u nwanted
. course
alignment by current or tide the coxswain must accept responsibility
and give appropriately brief and succinct commands to the crew. It is On occasio
unacceptable to anticipate making these adjustments after the start ns when it
is necess
with the rudder – it will be far too late and give opposition crews too first stro ary to ta
ke when t ke your
greater advantage (remember: rudder creates drag and alters the pitch he boat is
the surfa moving fas
of the boat). ce water, ter than
get the r
square on owers to
Additionally, there is often not enough room for correction to be made the “atte only half
ntion/are
this once you read
after the start making for a high probability of collision immediately after again avoid y?” call -
the start – this is perhaps the greatest cause of race stoppages in the s a check
off your li e d blade t
start zone. ne. hrowing

When in the starter’s hands it is best to assume that the starter will Sandy Mit
chell, Coxs
begin the race at any moment. Therefore, the coxswain must make wain
doubly sure that the crew is sitting in a ready position in anticipation of
the starter calling (for a side-start) “Quick start, (pause) “Attention”
(variable pause), “Go!”
 9 . 3 at t h e start c o n t ’ d . . .

W h at do e s it m e an to sit r e ad y ? R U LE 6 6 – T HE S T A R T I N G P R O C E D U R E
The crew should be sitting at the length of slide that will be used for the The following rules will vary from country to country, association to
first stroke. If alignment is necessary and the coxswain or aligner asks association but they will remain generically true of each standard regatta.
for an adjustment by a particular crewmember, then that rower should Please check your local rules for confirmation.
be using arms only and refrain from using the slide in case there is a call
of “Go,” from the starter. Once the starter has started the ‘roll-call’ or 66.1 The Starter shall inform the crews of their starting
is aligning boats he will take no notice of any coxswain that puts a hand positions. He shall start the race when the crews are
into the air to indicate difficulty or a need for more time. ready and when the Judge at the Start indicates that
the crews are correctly aligned.
It would not be the first time that a crew has been left at the start or veers
radically from course because one or more crewmembers have been 66.2 The Judge at the Start alone shall decide if the boats
sitting at the back of the slide or with oars out of the water. The coxswain are correctly aligned and if one or more crews have
should be prepared to give commands that require arm rowing only committed a false start.
(eg. “tap/touch it around” rather than “pull it around”) with short sharp
66.3 Should the Judge at the Start deem the start to be
movements (from the front of the slide).
faulty, the Starter shall stop the race
Of course, the opposite is also possible, where a crew is “too ready” and shall award a Yellow Card to the
and moves from the start in advance of the starter’s call - this is called crew or crews which, in the opinion
a false start. In these circumstances the starter will recall the race and of the Judge at the Start, caused
12 issue the crew with a yellow card, if the crew was to attract two yellow the false start. A crew receiving
cards, they will be excluded from the race. The good coxswain will not two Yellow Cards which apply to the
panic if issued with a yellow card and will simply calm the crew and same race, for any infringement
return quickly to the start. whatsoever, shall be excluded from
the event.
(Yellow cards can be issued for a variety of infringements including the
disregard of local traffic rules or ignoring the directives of officials.) Extract from Rowing Australia Rules of Racing
and Related By-Laws (2006 Edition)
A held start is becoming more and more common. That is where boats
are backed into a starting pontoon where a boat holder is situated to
take hold of the boat’s stern. An aligner will normally be used on such
occasions and give direct instructions to the boat holders to move the
boat forward or back (the crew and coxswain may be unaware of this due
to a “silent” communication system).
 9 . 3 at t h e start c o n t ’ d . . .
B y- L A W T O R U LE 6 6
O v e r v i e w o f S tarting Extract from Rowing Australia Rules of Racing and Related By-Laws (2006 Edition)
P roc e dur e – H e l d S tart
Starting Procedure (with flags)

> Starter calls 2 minutes.

Crews must attach themselves to their start pontoons at least two minutes before the
starting time of their race. Two minutes before the designated start time, the Starter
shall announce “Two minutes” and this shall signify to the crews that they are formally
> Alignment of crews begins. under Starter’s orders. The announcement of “Two minutes” shall also be an instruction
to the crews to prepare to race i.e. remove additional clothing, check equipment etc.

> Starter advises crews if the start procedure is to be a Before giving the start commands, the Starter shall ensure that the Umpire and the
Judge at the Start are ready. When the boats are aligned and the crews are ready to race,
“Quick start” and which method of “Go” signal is to be used the Starter shall make a roll-call by announcing - in lane order - the names of each of the
e.g. buzzer, lights, spoken “Go” etc. crews in the race. Once the roll-call begins the crews must make sure that their boats
are straight. Each crew is responsible for being both straight and ready to race at the end
> Aligner raises white flag to indicate alignment of crews.
of the roll-call
Once the roll-call begins the Starter shall take no further notice of any crew which then
indicates that it is not ready or that it is not straight. After the last crew has been named
> Starter begins ‘Roll-call’. in the roll-call the Starter shall check that the Judge at the Start is indicating that the
crews are still correctly aligned and shall then say: “Attention”.
> Starter prepares crews for start – gives warning command The Starter shall then raise the red flag.
“Attention” and raisers starter’s flag. After a clear pause the Starter shall give the start by dropping the red flag quickly
14 to one side and simultaneously saying: “Go” The pause between the raising of
the flag and the start command (dropping the red flag and saying “Go”)
> Starter gives starting command “GO” while dropping the shall be clear and variable.
starter’s flag to the side. If the starting procedure is interrupted for any reason external to the crews
or for a false start then the Starter must begin the procedure again, starting
> Crew/s leaving early – red flag is raised, bell is rung and the with the roll-call.
crews are signalled by starter and umpire to return. Starting Procedure (with traffic lights)
Once the roll-call begins, the Starter shall take no further notice of any
All races within a categor y will have the same start procedure. crew that then indicates it is not ready or it is not straight. After the
last crew has been named in the roll-call the Starter shall check that the
Nevertheless, this may vary throughout the day according to conditions.
Judge at the Start is indicating that the crews are still correctly
If the weather becomes windy then the starter may change the starting aligned and shall then say: “Attention”.
procedure from what it was early in the day. The starter should advise all
The Starter shall then press a button (or switch) to change
starting crews of any changes – this may take the form of a “Quick start”.
the traffic lights from the neutral position to red. After a
More and more, in domestic regattas, the “Quick Start” is being used as clear pause, the Starter shall give the start by pressing a
the preferred start (with or without the boat being held). This is a shorter button that shall, at the same moment:
start procedure that removes the ‘two minute warning’ and ‘roll-call’. a) Change the red light to green;
It accounts for poor weather but also allows for a quick succession of b) Make the audible signal through the loudspeakers;
races. Crews will be aligned and then given a warning command
c) Start the timing system for the race
“QUICK START, ATTENTION” and the starter’s flag is raised. After a
variable pause the starting command “GO” is given as the starters flag The pause between the red light and the start command (and the
is dropped to one side. green light and the audible signal) shall be clear and variable.
9 . 3 at t h e start c o n t ’ d . . .
D ri l l s to do at t h e start
When all crews have cleared the starting line, the starter, may control the w h e n y our rac e is d e l a y e d :
race for the first 100 metres, but the umpire is in control of the entire
race. They must be satisfied that the race has started without incident
Complete a weighted roll- up
i.e. no crew has false-started or interfered with another crew. They must
also be satisfied that there have been no equipment breakages. If there
Back the oar through the water to the catch position while moving
is equipment failure within the ‘start zone’ (first 100 metres), this will
up the slide.
usually entitle the crew to a restart. The good coxswain will raise his
hand immediately and do everything possible to attract the attention of
Tap downs
the starter or umpire to communicate the problem. The relevant boat
race official will then stop the race. If the boat race officials are alert to
Sit at finish position and complete the tap down out of the water
the breakage, and the program allows, then they will give the crew time to
repeatedly in time together.
make repairs before requiring a re-start.
On such occasions the coxswain must make an immediate withdrawal Roll- up
from the course and assess the breakage from the side of the course.
The umpire will also examine the damage and decide whether the crew’s Starting in the finish position move up the slide to catch
claim was justified. In cooperation with the crewmembers the coxswain position together.
should ascertain whether a replacement part is necessary. Boat race
officials are often willing to relay a message to the finish to inform the Tap ins
coach, or relevant club member, of the circumstances. It is best to be
very clear with communication if parts need to be relayed to the start Sit at catch position and move the blade in and out of the water 17
for repairs. in unison.

Be sure to note: a crewmember coming off a seat, a seat Stuff - the -duck
coming off a slide or an oar coming out of an open gate, does not
constitute a breakage. From the catch position move the legs back a quarter of slide
The circumstances and procedures vary from regatta to regatta (one off or repeatedly).
– all coxswains should be aware of these variables prior
to their crew’s race. Visit the start, if time allows, or Hold the finish position
take very careful note of the starting circumstances
in the earlier races while waiting for your own race. Maintain posture suitable for finish of the stroke without
Be sure to pass this information on to your crew so slumping or lowering shoulders, back or head – this can be done
for a set time specified by the coxswain.
that they are adequately prepared.
The calm, professional coxswain will keep his crew
alert and race ready. If there are unforeseen delays Each of these does not need to be used consecutively but can be done
prior to the race beginning, do not allow the crew to intermittently to break up the waiting time. It will keep the crew both physically and
sit idle and become increasingly nervous or cold. mentally ready without exhausting them or increasing their nervousness. Creating
There are a number of exercises or routines that a familiar structured environment builds a crew’s confidence.
can be applied in such circumstances. They require If permitted, and time allows, the coxswain can take the crew to some less
little space and should not interfere with other crews. congested space for further exercises or drills. However, the coxswain should
always be aware of the time available and not venture too far from the marshals
that will call the coxswain’s particular race to the line.
 9 . 4 R A C I N G
The good coxswain should never underestimate his ability to contribute
to the success or failure of a crew in a race. Successful coaches and
realistic rowers know, from experience, that the coxswain can be the

“... reading, writing

glue that holds a crew together under race conditions. It is not unheard
of to hear a coach prior to racing, saying to his coxswain, “They are the

and arithmetic?
brawn but you are the brains.” The experienced know that racing is not just
a mindless exercise in demonstrating superior strength; it is the application
of finesse, the efficiency of technique and the realisation of a plan. Each is in

Rowing has its own

the hands of the coxswain, especially in the absence of the coach.
Over the course of months the coach has been building a crew that is race

three ‘Rs’: rhythm,

ready. In other words, the crew knows: what they are to do, how they are
to do it, why they are doing it and when it should be done – a race draws

rating and grrrr! ”

all of these into full focus.
The coxswain is the coach’s insurance policy. It can never be left to
chance that all things learnt will remain learnt under the pressure of
racing – the coxswain will prompt, enthuse, remind, measure, analyse,
decide and inform during the course of a race. All of these are high order
skills that require much alertness and thought from the coxswain – after
18
all, who else is going to do it; the coach is waiting at the finish line and the
rowers are otherwise occupied - it needs to be done.

During a race there are four main responsibilities:

Steering the boat on a straight course (the primary responsibility).

Informing the rowers of their position relative to other crews and

distance travelled.

Motivating the crew toward achieving their best.

Communicating and applying to the crew the race plan.

9 . 4 R A C I N G cont ’d...

Steering should be the least of a good coxswain’s concerns on race day.

The boat and its reaction to the rudder will be familiar to the cox that has Poor rowing
trained regularly with the same crew in the same boat. Nevertheless, a Crews will sometimes do the unexpected. “Catching a crab” will dramatically
coxswain can diverge from a straight course and these can come down to change the course of a boat. Enthusiastic, stronger rowers will always
some very common, but often avoidable, causes: pull around listless weaker rowers. Competition can bring out the worst
or the best in a rower.
Inattentiveness Good Cox – has in place a procedure for handling
Distracted by the noise and excitement of racing crews side by side. Too
the eventuality of a crab and knows who his
often coxswains look toward the boats beside them and inadvertently
weaker/stronger rowers are and how to
steer in that same direction or forget to look ahead.
compensate for this while steering.
Good Cox – remains focused on the progress of his crew and
looks sparingly at opposition.

Unfamiliarity
Unaware of special circumstances existing on this particular course. The
course may bend slightly or selected navigation points are not aligned
with racing lanes. Also, the coxswain may not be aware of the influence
traffic, tide or current has on the boat’s course. 21
Good Cox – walks the course in advance of racing, speaks
with other coxswains and plans ahead.

Bad conditions
Weather can sometimes be an unknown variable. If the wind is blowing
across the course it may prove difficult to stay aligned. If the sun is
shining in the coxswain’s eyes from above or reflected off the water, then
it will be difficult to see ahead.
Good Cox – knows how to adjust steering to compensate
for weather conditions and will wear sunglasses to combat
excessive glare.
9 . 4 R A C I N G cont ’d...
R U LE 7 0 -
With the assistance of the rowers, the coxswain should always be R E S P O N S I B I L I T Y O F T HE R O W E R S
aware of the umpire’s directions. The umpire will either be on the bank
or travelling behind the race in a motor boat. It is the umpire’s job to All rowers shall compete in their races in accordance with the rules. Rowers
guarantee the safety, then the fairness of competition and deliver an are responsible for their own steering. Each crew shall have a lane reserved
‘all clear’ at the race’s completion. for its own use and shall remain completely (i.e., including its oars or sculls)
within this lane throughout the race. If a crew leaves its own lane then it
Throughout the race he may direct wayward crews to correct their does so at its own risk. If it impedes or interferes with any of its opponents
steering by waving directional flags (usually white) and giving direction or gains any advantage thereby, it may be penalised.
through a megaphone. The coxswain, of course, will be looking ahead and
will not see the umpire’s flag waving behind him. Therefore, the stroke R U LE 7 1 - I N T E R FE R E N C E
should be prepared to advise the coxswain of the direction advised by
the umpire. A crew causes interference to its opponents if its oars, sculls or boat
encroach into the opponent’s lane and cause a disadvantage to its opponents
To ignore the umpire’s direction is to risk removal from the event. Be sure by contact, its wash or other distraction, or in any other way. The Umpire
that the stroke is aware of this responsibility before racing. alone shall decide if a crew is in its own lane or if it is interfering with
another crew and causing them a disadvantage. If a crew has caused
Ultimately, the good coxswain will use his rudder as little as possible. interference to another crew and has, in the Umpire’s opinion,
affected the finishing position of that crew then it shall be
The following rules are taken from the Rowing Australia Rule Book, excluded by the Umpire but, in principle, only after it has been
2006 Edition. Although the relevant rules may vary from country to warned by the Umpire. In the situation where a collision between
country – they remain true in broad principle in most rowing nations boats or oars or sculls has occurred the Umpire may exclude
(check local rules for detail). It is worth noting the action to be taken the crew causing the collision even if no prior warning has
when lodging a protest /objection below – the crew should not leave been given to that crew. In no case may the Umpire alter a placing.
the finish line until there has been official acknowledgement of the arm
raised in protest / objection. R U LE 7 4 - O B J E C T I O N S
A crew claiming that its race was not in order or was
improperly judged may make an objection to the
Umpire immediately after the finish of the race and
before leaving the finish area by raising an arm.
The Umpire of the race decides on the objection and
communicates his decision to the crews in the race and
to the other race officials.
 9 . 4 R A C I N G cont ’d...

Informing the rowers in the crew of their position relative to other The good coxswain should decide in consultation with his crew and
crews may, on the surface, sound very straightforward. But how does a coach what information is necessary to assist the crew during the race
coxswain distinguish between being a “tourist guide”, a “commentator”, and how it can be best delivered. This should not be a random free-flow
an “observer” or a “race-caller”. Each of these roles would inform the
of thoughts but part of the race plan. The crews position relative to
crew of their position within the race but each would communicate that
information differently. Which of these should the coxswain be? others and distances travelled can be factored in to the more technical
aspects of the race plan at various intervals in the race.
The ‘Tourist guide coxswain’
Uses a voice that sounds informed about things that If the crew is expected to be with the rest of the field after the start,
have happened but by reading a set script sounds (eg. 200 metres) then this may be the point in the race for a comment.
detached from those things that are happening. The coxswain will assess the relative difference and inform the crew
in positive terms of the distances between themselves and others:
The ‘Commentator coxswain’
“We are doing well; we have a canvas on the field,” or “We are in touch;
Makes observations and fills the quiet with a
steady flow of banter and analysis. hold your form,” or “We have given them half a length, let’s take it
back.” According to the race plan the crew may even be required to be
The ‘Observer coxswain’ relatively slow out of the start, “They have half a length out of the start,
Has no such qualms – he speaks the plan is on track, let’s hold them at that.”
infrequently and remains detached.
24 The same scenario may be repeated at agreed intervals down the
The ‘Race- caller coxswain’ course and each time the coxswain’s delivery will reflect the
Is excited, whipping up enthusiasm with fast
importance, urgency and required mental state of the crew. It would
delivery and continuous wordage.
be inappropriate, for the 200 metre mark example given above, to have
The coxswain, advisedly, should be a coxswain making the calls in excited tirades of increasing volume. The
none of these. crew would require from the coxswain a sense of building a foundation
The coxswain walks the fine line between - a “steady as she goes” attitude. The coxswain, like the crew, can go
saying too much and saying too little; being out too hard, too early and be left with nowhere to go at the end of the
too excited or not excited enough; including race. There is no benefit in building to an artificial climax 200 metres
all information or just some information; into a race – it cannot be sustained nor will it allow a settling into a
dwelling on what has happened or what is measured rhythm by cox or crew.
happening.
 9 . 4 R A C I N G cont ’d...

Push... now!
Experienced, and maybe not so experienced, rowers fear the call that goes
something like, “That’s 200 metres down, only 1800 metres to go.” It is the
quickest way to knock the wind out of a rower’s sails. It is recommended
that when informing a crew as to how far they have travelled that it should

Build
be relative to the middle distance i.e. before half way inform the crew as
to how far they have travelled, after half way let them know what distance
remains. For example, if two hundred metres into a one thousand metre
race it is better to say “We are at the 200 metre point,” rather than “we

Take it
have 800 metres to go”.

Hold... hold
The crew during a race would like to know and often must know:

Where the crew is relative to start or finish line

e.g. “We have five hundred metres remaining.”

26
Where the crew is relative to other crews in the race
e.g. “Their bow is now level with our two seat, and they are gaining.” Squeeze Stride!
Where the crew is relative to expectation
e.g “We knew they would be fast early, now we settle in and break Breathe
them down.”

No mercy!
Where the crew is relative to the race plan
e.g. “ This is where we make our stride to the line, in five, four,
three, two, one – stride!”
 9 . 4 R A C I N G cont ’d...
M oti v ating
The good coxswain should know what strings to pull in steering a boat The word “now” is one such word that sharpens the focus, and when
but will also know what ‘buttons to push’ - the ‘buttons’ being referred delivered with full exclamation, prompts a strong response. Or it can be
to are motivational. The coxswain, in selecting the right buttons for each a quiet, drawn out word indicating a slow transition with gradual variation
rower, will know that the boat is likely to be faster if he pushes the right one. “I want you to stride with longer strokes, nnnnoowww.” Alternatively,
If a rower responds well to the “encouragement button” then it should be it can be a sharp, demanding word that requires an instantaneous
pushed. If the rower responds well to the “aggression button” then that response, “I want full effort, now!”
too must be pushed. Each rower will respond differently to different
calls from the coxswain and the coxswain must know the calls, how to Circumstances change from race to race – the calls made by a coxswain
make the calls and when to make the calls. of a crew languishing in last place, will be different from the coxswain
that races bow-ball to bow-ball heading toward the finishing line. On each
Of course, there are crew calls that become an integral part of the race
occasion the coxswain will demonstrate his value by knowing the right
plan. The coxswain, in consultation with the coach and crew (during
buttons to push, the right calls to make.
training), will have predetermined points throughout the race where an
extra effort is required or a change of focus is necessary. These will be “That’s better, we’ve reclaimed some water,” would not be the ideal
prompted by a clear, concise call from the coxswain that, in delivery and
call for a crew slowly falling behind the field as the finish line closes.
word selection, reflects the amount of effort and degree of focus required
However, it may work for a crew immediately after they have made a
from the rowers.
mid-race push. For the losing crew nearing the finish it may simply be
evidence of their continuing failure; for the other crew, it may reinforce 29
their sense of progress and the reward for continued effort.

(Remember, if trailing the field the good coxswain will preserve the
dignity of his crew by taking the focus off external elements beyond the
crews control and shift the emphasis to isolated internal “boat goals”
e.g. clean exits from the water, 10 strokes without looking out of the boat.)

It will depend upon the delivery. If the call was made with enthusiasm,
volume and a sense of triumph then it would work so much better than if
delivered with a sense of inevitable defeat.
9 . 4 R A C I N G cont ’d...

The crew that has a race plan that requires a lead in the first 200 metres Being able to interchange these two calls suggests that the call of the
will benefit from a coxswain that begins his race calls with high energy, bad coxswain is not bad in itself; it is simply applied at an inopportune or
short sharp statements and a sense of urgency. However, this cannot be inappropriate time.
maintained by crew or coxswain indefinitely. Therefore, the race plan may
It is worthwhile for each coxswain to discuss with their crew the words
dictate that from the 200 metre mark the crew steady their rate, row long
that work best to motivate them. There is a large variety in current
and find a good rhythm. The coxswain’s calls will reflect this:
usage for different parts of the race and each will evoke a different
The Bad Coxswain response, depending on the circumstances, depending on the crew.
“We’re two hundred metres in...keep it going...you’ve got the Here is an assortment of words used by a coxswain to motivate a crew
lead...harder, let’s see what you are made of...leg drive, leg to do something more: Jump!, Charge!, Squeeze!, Press!, Take!, Power!,
drive...go, go, go...we can beat them...let’s leave them in our Steal!, More!, Rage!, Go!
wake...push...push again!”
These calls are only limited by the coxswain’s imagination or the crew’s
knowledge of what works for them.
The Good Coxswain
“We’re two hundred metres in...we are up by a canvas...over
five strokes let’s lengthen out...hold that power...let’s steady
the slide...five...four...three...steady...two... one...long now...
and hold them off.”
The outcome for each of the crews can be determined at this point.
31
The bad coxswain will seek to whip his crew indefinitely, assaulting
them with his words until they have nothing more to give or they become
deaf to the constant badgering. They will tire very quickly and the
coxswain will have no words left to inspire a further effort.
The good coxswain, on the other hand, will look for appropriate points
within the race to vary the delivery and content of his calls. He will
steady their rhythm while modulating his voice, he will be considered in
his delivery and the crew will respond with stroke control. In fact, the
good coxswain may build to a point where he can use the bad coxswain’s
call above.
The ‘bad coxswain call’ would be especially appropriate at the end of the
race to be used by the good coxswain; over the last two hundred metres
– it could prove to be just the motivation needed. The crew will increase
their aggression, spend their energy and not keep anything in reserve in
their bid to cross the finish line first. The crew that has suffered under the
tirade of the bad coxswain for the duration of the race would not be able
to differentiate between the call in the first two hundred and the last two
hundred metres.
5 .12
T h E R A C E P L A N ( E x amp l e )
DISTANCE Major CALL Example Sub-Major CALL Example Crew Focus Example Coaching Aim

0-250 METRES ‘Hold out’ • Hold 1,2,3, speed & Legs 4&5. • Seeking to create momentum – stroke rating
Build ‘Fast legs back’ • Fast legs, sit tall & boat speed with and length increasing with every stroke –
‘Legs/hold everything. not to rush.
250 METRES
3 Push for Three ‘Push the boat out’ • The three hardest strokes. • Boat has reached maximum speed, rowers
‘Run the boat’ Push for length – long at catch are settling into a sustainable rating, length
‘Breath’ and finish. and rhythm.
Hips back together.
500 METRES
Mid Drive Push ‘Squeeze legs out’ • Heads up, push all legs down together. • Maintain boat speed through legs not speed
‘Hold the legs down’ Max pressure at mid drive. on slide. Length of stroke. Settling period.
‘@ 500m mark’ This takes us into the 2nd 500m.

750 METRES Sharp Catches

‘Hips sharp off the front’ • Long & Flat at the front. • Accurate catch placement, not missing
‘Place & push’ Place right where we reach. any water, bodies up in boat. Legs are working.
Back splash. Outside arm hangs,
‘Heads steady hips first. • Draw rowers focus back into the boat with
1000 METRES look up, sit tall...’ specific tech calls for efficiency of effort.

Relax & Speed • Random technical calls for each person.

‘Speed together’ • Re-assess, re-group relax the shoulders,
‘Stay central’ • Preparing for run to the line, be sure disciplined movement.
‘Efficient movements’ of timing, relaxed aggression, tech • Mid-race push to begin again with renewed
1250 METRES Framework & speed of movement vigour and conviction.
• Point in race where “other” crews feel the pinch
Re-Start ‘No mercy – shut them out
‘Take the race’’ • Launch Attack on last 750 good water.
Build for 5, speed up for 10.
Breathe Build • Coxswain must ‘talk it up’ sell the possibilities
1500 METRES
for the run home.
(just before 1500m) ‘Heads up’
‘Move together’
‘Lift the boat’ • Heads up/ big breath.
• With the hips and swing.
• Energy of the boat. • Tiring rowers must sit up and finish strokes off.
Step Legs! • Acceleration through the water MUST be
1750 METRES • Rate 1 point.
maintained.
‘Build over 3’ • Coxswain keeps crew relaxed and focused.
‘Hold for 3’ • Jump off the feet – together –
Step Swing Back! don’t rip/stay long in the water.
‘Step’
• Swing back with the bodies, hold legs
Step Arms Crank! • Crew builds rating over a number of separate
down firmly.
steps of 10 strokes allowing the crew to work
• Draw high, carry handle momentum their way through “the gears”.
2000 METRES thru to body and away. • As the rating goes up the boat speed must
GO!!
• Everything you have. Pull yourself also increase.
forward, rate UP, UP, UP. • All energy must be spent by the crew.
9 . 4 R A C I N G cont ’d...

Each rowing season has its one major race to which all glory and honour is Additionally, the coxswain may need to rethink his delivery making
attached. It is in the heat of competition that the strengths and weaknesses the call as a demand rather than a request to be taken up or ignored.
of a rowing crew are magnified under the public gaze. The good coxswain, The call must reflect the absolute necessity of an immediate response,
like a biblical David - small in stature, can stride with confidence onto this “I want, and I will get, your ten best strokes, NOW!”
stage to do battle with the rowing Goliaths; armed with rowing’s equivalent
The crew might also have a different interpretation of the call. For
of a sling shot – a proven race plan (See previous page).
example, two seat, typically slow in his responses, waits two strokes
Size really does not matter, preparation does. A finally honed race plan before joining in the effort. Three seat believes that a ten stroke effort is a
that accounts for the crew’s strengths and the opposition’s weaknesses build over five strokes to a maximum effort over the next five. At the same
can tip the scales of competition in favour of the prepared coxswain’s crew. time bow seat is prone to washing out at the end of his stroke and is very
tentative about applying too much pressure in fear of the consequences.
The race plan is the culmination of weeks of training and race practice.
Subsequently, the stroke seat rower, having made the supreme effort to
It is the notes and observations made by coach and coxswain, the
lift his crew from the very first stroke after the coxswain made
feedback offered by crewmembers and the acknowledgement that both
the call, finds himself rowing on his own to lift the boat –
success and failure can each teach a valuable lesson.
after three of these strokes, lifting the boat on his
From every failure or false step there is an opportunity to learn. own, he is exhausted and cannot complete the
seven remaining strokes.
> “Why did we have nothing left over the last 500 metres.” A good coxswain will, with the assistance of
the coach and feedback from the crew, find
> “Why were other crews faster than us out of the start?”
the most appropriate means to rectify these
> “Why is there always a drop in rating at the 1200 metre mark?” problems in the race plan.
35
> “Why does two seat beat stroke seat into the water over the
second half of the race?”
> “Why can’t we sustain a ten stroke push?”

There are answers to each of these questions – some can be addressed

in training (time permitting) and others, more specific to racing, can be
addressed by the race plan. Taking the question, “Why can’t we sustain
a ten stroke push?” as an example, there is a course of action to address
this that is relevant to race planning for coach, cox and crew.
For instance, it may be a question of the ten stroke push being asked
for when the crew is settling and the call countermands their efforts to
create a steady rhythm. Or it may be that having already made an extra
push at the 1000m mark and being left with little reserved energy a
second push immediately after the first is counter productive.
From the coxswain’s perspective it may be that his call is less than
adequate. His call of “Ten hard, now.” Gives the crew little preparation
time to make a unified and comprehensive response – a call that gives the
crew time to make mental and physical preparation ahead of the effort
would be better i.e. “In five, we are going for a push of ten hard strokes.”
 9 . 4 R A C I N G cont ’d...

A primary concern of coxswain’s when using a race plan is what to do

if the opposition is making a major effort or they are taking the race > “What are we to do if the opposition makes a push?”
initiative. In other words: “What do we do if things don’t go to plan?”
Put simply, the coxswain must be prepared to adapt.
> “What are we to do if we catch a crab?”

This does not mean to “throw the baby out with the bath water” by > “What are we to do if we are behind at the 1500m mark?”
abandoning the race plan completely. The opposition must not be allowed
to dictate the coxswain’s race calls – but the coxswain ignores the > “What are we to do if we are five lengths up with 300 metres to go?”
opposition at the crew’s peril. To have uncompromising adherence to the
plan or complete abandonment are inappropriate responses for the good Many coaches, crews and coxswains are afraid to ask these questions in
coxswain. Fortunately, the good coxswain will have a ‘plan B’! fear of “tempting fate”. In other words, the head in the sand is safer than
acknowledging that something might go wrong. It is not enough to plan
for the best case scenario; planning should also be made for the worst
case scenario.

Each problem has a solution and it is best that these are considered
in advance. The good coxswain will speak with his coach and crew to
ascertain the best response under possible circumstances that vary from
the essential race plan.
36
Finally, the good crew builds on success; it does not take it for granted.
One success can often provide a template for future success. The good
coxswain and coach will note the circumstances that led to the crew
enjoying a victory and seek to replicate them (circumstances allowing)
when next racing.

But remember, the race plan may be a small part of what needs to be
replicated to secure success. It may have been the 9:30 curfew the
night before, the leisurely breakfast recommended by a dietician, the
packed rowing bag at the front door, the early arrival at the course, a
race day schedule pinned to the trailer, an inspiring speech made by the
coach. These are all variables that can, with thorough planning, become
comforting constants in the life of a crew on race day.

The good coxswain will facilitate all routines, schedules and plans,
allowing the rower free to focus upon a faster boat, and the coach, able
to give his full attention to the crew. Without any word of doubt, the good
coxswain is not only relevant on regatta day but ultimately indispensable.
9 . 4 R A C I N G cont ’d...

On the right is a helpful checklist to be used prior to the regatta to assist in

R E GATTA C H E C K L I S T
To b e c o n s i d e r e d p r i o r t o c o m p e t i n g i n a r e g a t t a
the good coxswain’s preparation. (This has also been included at the back of
Clothing I know that I will be suitably dressed for racing and the conditions? Yes No
The Good Coxswain’s Logbook).
Tools I have all necessary tools for boat maintenance and racing? Yes No
Pre-Race
Information I know when, where and what I am racing? Yes No
Day Prep
Money I have money enough to cover likely costs for race day? Yes No

Food/Drink Am I required to bring my own food and drink? Yes No

Arrival I know when to leave home and arrive at the regatta? Yes No

Pre-race Rigging I know where the boat will be rigged and racked? Yes No

Schedule Race start I know how much time I must allow to get to the start? Yes No

Weigh-in I know when and where I should weigh-in, if necessary? Yes No

Coxbox I know that the coxbox is charged and will work? Yes No

Steering I know that the boat will steer straight? Yes No

Boat Prep
Parts I know that the boat will function as designed? Yes No

Bow Number I know where and how to obtain a bow number, if necessary? Yes No

Briefing The crew and I know what is expected of us in the race? Yes No

Race Plan I have a detailed race plan for this particular race? Yes No

Warm up I know what is the crew’s warm-up routine? Yes No

Race Prep Race information I know event, time, race number, lane, opposition, progression? Yes No

Course rules I know the course traffic rules to take me safely to the start? Yes No

Responses I know what to do if faced with ‘bad luck’ or emergency ? Yes No

Distance markers I know what to look for to judge distances on the course? Yes No

Marshalling I know where I am to report prior to the start of the race? Yes No

Start Procedure I know what will be the procedure for starting the race? Yes No
Starts
Alignment Adjustments I know how to change my steering for varied water conditions? Yes No

Delayed Start I know what to do if at the start and the starting time is delayed? Yes No

Plan I know my race plan off by heart? Yes No

Voice I have control over my voice and emotions for good rowing? Yes No

Calls I have calls for each part of the race? Yes No

Data I know how to use the information my coxbox provides? Yes No

Steering I know the course layout and where I am to steer? Yes No

Racing
Responses I have calls for when winning, when level and for when losing? Yes No

Observation I know how to identify my crew’s good or bad rowing? Yes No

Feedback I know what to say to my crew to encourage better rowing? Yes No

Relative Position I know how to provide my crew with info re their placing in the race? Yes No

Motivation I know what I can say to motivate my crew to perform at their best? Yes No

Support I know how to offer encouragement to the crew after the race? Yes No

Protest I know how to lodge a protest, if necessary? Yes No

Post-Race
Feedback I know when and how to offer race feedback to the coach? Yes No

Packing and Loading I know how I can assist with packing and loading after the regatta? Yes No
 quick
cont ’d....

back chock The most distant point toward the bow that a sliding seat quick start Shorter start procedure that can be implemented when
may move on its tracks. there are time restraints.

canvas The distance between bow ball and bow seat used as race pl an A structure for racing worked out prior to competing that
a standard measure for margins between boats (or a the crew is to implement under the coxswain’s instruction.
fraction thereof i.e. half a canvas).

roll- up An exercise where the rower begins at the finish position

C atching a crab (oar at body, legs down) and then proceeds up the slide
An uncontrolled submersion of the blade well below its completing all required movements to place the oar in the
usual depth, often caused by poor rowing technique. It water at the catch
may result in the boat stopping and/or the rower being
thrown from their seat.
stride A descriptive term used to call for a change in crew rhythm
and rating.
catch position The rower’s position at the front of the slide as the oar is
placed in the water.
weighte d roll- up
An exercise pushing the squared oar through the water
clear wate r A descriptive term used to indicate the distance between while advancing to the front of the slide then holding
competing boats where there is no overlap in the margin. the oar at the catch position.

held start A form of race start that requires boats to be held in place
by their stern prior to a set starting routine for racing.

l andmark An object easily seen and serving as a guide to the

coxswain when travelling down a course.

le ngth A standard measure for margins between crews equalling

the full length of the boat being raced (or fractions thereof
i.e. three-quarters of a length or half a length).

push A descriptive term used to indicate a concerted increase in

effort made by crewmembers during a race.
 the good

T HE G O O D C O X S W A I N W I LL :

Have in place a detailed and familiar warm-up routine

pre-race.

Know the various start routines used by starters in regattas.

Have a contingency plan while in the marshalling area for

© 2007 Andrew O’Brien
a delayed start. RowEd
E-mail: info@rowed.com.au
www.rowed.com.au
Know what form a race plan should take.
First Published in 2008
Be familiar with what should be said during a race. Rowing Victoria Incorporated
Suite 13, 20 Commercial Rd,
Melbourne VIC 3004
Telephone: 03 9820 8888
Identifies how a crew can be motivated to perform www.rowingvictoria.asn.au
at their best.
Cartoon Graphics
Will Goodwin
Understands how to respond to changing www.willgoodwin.com.au
circumstances in a race. Design / Production
Gillian Deeble
www.gjddesigns.com.au
Have a checklist of ‘things-to-do’
and ‘things-to-know’ prior to a regatta. The Good Coxswain title and the series of booklets are copyright. Apart from any use permitted under the Copyright Act
1968 and any subsequent amendments, no part may be reproduced, stored in retrieval system or transmitted by any means
or process whatsoever without prior written permission. Enquiries should be addressed to the Author – Andrew O’Brien,
RowEd Australia.
.
Disclaimer
The author and publisher believe all material produced for The Good Coxswain is correctly and accurately researched.
However, we give no warranty in relation thereto and disclaim liability for all claims against the publication, its employees
or any person associated which may arise from any material contained within its pages which may be challenged by any
persons. Views expressed by the Good Coxswain are not necessarily those of Rowing Australia or associated State Rowing
bodies or associations.

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I n Asso c i a t i o n W IT H :