A4_7 A Crew-cial Race Start

Abstract

In this paper we aim to investigate the practicalities of reaching peak speed of a rowing race inone stroke of the oars from a standstill. The feasibility of such as start is evaluated by the velocity of water generated by the boat’s movement and the force needed by each of the eight rowers. The velocity of water caused by this motion, was found to be 143.58ms(−1), creating significantly dangerous currents in the water. The force required of each rower was calculated as 1.78MN, a force comparable to lifting around 182 tonnes. Therefore, a race start of this calibre is concludedto be unfeasible, dangerous and absurd to all those involved.