Rowing is a competitive water sport in which athletes race narrow, elongated boats by propelling them with oars. Because each stroke must overcome the resistance of water, the sport demands tremendous physical strength and stamina. Its intense exertion has even earned it the nickname “marathon on the water.”
In rowing, athletes sit facing away from the direction of travel. While the number of rowers varies by event, the “eight” features eight rowers plus one additional team member—the coxswain1)— the only person facing forward. The coxswain’s job is to steer the boat quickly and accurately toward the finish line. If the force or rhythm of strokes on either side falls out of balance, the boat may veer off course or lose speed. The coxswain keeps the crew’s pace steady, ensures the boat stays on track, and calls out commands that inspire the team to give their best.
The rowers cannot see the finish line; their eyes and ears are fixed entirely on the coxswain. When all eight move as one under that guidance, the boat slices through the water with power and precision, surging straight toward its goal.
1) The helmsman of a boat
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