How are crews (or “boats”) selected?
Rowing is the consummate team sport and as such coaches are seeking the fastest combinations of eight rowers and one coxswain they can put together. Many factors go into this choice of people and their respective positions in a boat. In general, these factors include rowing skill, strength and power, endurance, experience as a racer, and an assortment of intangible factors that allow the individual to blend in and complement the other members of the crew. These factors are measured in a variety of different ways that include ergometer testing, weight lifting performance, running speed, height, weight, and observation over many days of practice.
