What are the antenna on the front of rowing sculls for?

Question

I'm wondering what purpose radio antenna serve on the sculls? Are they in use in competition and if so who uses what?

Answer 1

Hi,

The antennas which you have seen on the fronts (bows) of the boats are GPS transmitters and are used to calculate boat speeds and the  distances between competitors. This data is then incorporated into television coverage.

The technology was developed recently by the world rowing governing body (fisa) and is used primarily in international competitions ( World Cups, World Championships, Olympics) It is mandatory for every competing boat to have it attached to their boat during racing.

It is also possible to use these devices to time races, but I believe that the Olympic regatta is instead recording finish times by studying photo finish pictures. Intermediate times are recorded by officials in the huts at each 500m marker.

Answer 2

I don't think they're supposed to have them because they could be used to contact the coaches but the rowers aren't usually penalized.