Bow Seat Rowing in Quads?

Question

I sit bow seat in a blind quad, (in a racing shell). I row on a novice team, and we've been rowing since early fall (Late September.) Lately, I've been falling down on the job- we tend to cross the buoy line (I row on a two-way lake) despite my constant calls "Port!" for what seems like forever. I can't blame the conditions because the other quad was okay. I think I can do better. Does anyone with experience have any key advice? Much appreciation.

Answer 1

Everyone can see the boat's wake, and should be checking their hand position for the entry point and exit point to be sure they pull evenly.

Take turns rowing in pairs, or one at a time in the quad, and help each other out by observing what might be causing the problem. Some of you may be stronger on one side of your body, and forgetting to compensate so the boat pulls straight. Sculling one at a time in the quad will isolate who is the biggest culprit (also a good workout).  Then it is that person's responsibility to improve.  Maybe swap them out for someone else, or row with just three, and put the offender in a single to learn to scull with even pressure and stroke length.