We try to be an inclusive club and a majority of our rowers do not know how to swim when they start our program.  In the fall we spend two days a week learning to row with PFDs on and two days a week at the pool learning how to swim.  Once the rower has passed the swim test they can leave their PFD with the coach instead of wearing it. 

 

We require that all single scullers take an inflatable PFD out in the single, usually attached to the rigger and stowed behind the footboards.  All coaches must wear a PFD while operating a launch or when at the helm of our training barge.

 

Our swim test consists of jumping in the deep end and staying submerged for 5 seconds, swimming the length of the pool and back, treading water for 10 minutes, and putting on a PFD.

 

Hope this information helps.
 

DeDe Birch
dede.birch@...
JLAC Director of Rowing Programs
510-208-6060

"You make a living by what you get; you make a life by what you give."