Beginning Sculling
$120 per session
Program Description:
This class teaches new rowers the basics needed to get out on their own using entry-level, single-person boats. In this class, students learn boat-handling skills and water safety, and are introduced to the sport in a small-group setting. The class fee includes a free guest membership for one (1) month, upon completion of the class. Experienced scullers are available to help out novice scullers until they feel comfortable rowing on their own.
Prerequisite:
No rowing experience is needed. A completed swim test, waiver, and class fees must be received prior to the class.
Download and print the Sculling Handbook (PDF format) for a detailed guide to sculling.
Class Times:
Each session of Beginning Sculling includes three meeting times over two weekends.
Each session meets on the second weekend of each month on both Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. – Noon, followed by the third weekend of each month on Sunday from 1o a.m. – Noon, unless noted otherwise.
All participants are required to be at the class for the entire eight (8) hours.
2013 Class Dates:
Session 1: February 9-10, 17
Session 2: March 9-10, 17
Session 3: (OPR Activity # 72907.100) April 13-14, 21
Session 4: (OPR Activity # 72907.101) May 12, 18-19 (Note: Class dates changed due to regatta)
Session 5: (OPR Activity # 72907.102) June 8-9, 16
Session 6: (OPR Activity # 72907.103) July 13-14, 21
Session 7: (OPR Activity # 72907.105) August 10-11, 18
Session 8: (OPR Activity # 72907.106) September 14-15, 22
Session 9: (OPR Activity # 72907.107) October 12-13, 20
Session 10: (OPR Activity # 72907.108) November 9-10, 17
FAQ:
Additional Questions:
Email novice_sculling@lakemerrittrowingclub.org
Registration:
Required Forms for Beginning Sculling Registration:
LMRC Swim Test
LMRC Standard Athlete’s Release Form
Enrollment Directions:
Registration can be done online at Oakland Parks and Recreation (within the Boating category) OR via the process below.
1. Initiate the sign-up process for the next available beginning sculling class by emailing novice_sculling@lakemerrittrowingclub.org.
2. All rowing students must show proof of their ability to swim (from a Water Safety Instructor) before taking the class. Complete your swim test, fill out the Swim Test Form, and have it signed by the WSI.
The Swim Test and a list of pools that can administer the test can be found here.
3. Complete a personal check payment for $120 (made out to Lake Merritt Rowing Club).
4. Complete a Standard Athlete’s Release Form.
5. Mail all three documents (Swim Test Form, check payment, and Standard Athlete’s Release Form) to the instructor:
Jill McIntire
658 Wildcat Canyon Road
Berkeley, CA 94708
6. Email the instructor at novice_sculling@lakemerrittrowingclub.org to let her know you have mailed the paperwork.
All paperwork must be received by the instructor 1 week prior to the class start date. A spot in the class is not considered confirmed until the appropriate forms and payment are received. There is a limit of four (4) people per class, and class may be cancelled if there is low enrollment. NO REFUND will be given if a cancellation is made less than 2 weeks prior to the class.
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Additional Sculling Information
In sculling, each rower has two oars, one extending from each side of the boat. Each oar is held with one hand. There are several sculling boat configurations that accommodate one, two, or four rowers.
The sculling class covers basic equipment safety and handling, getting in/out of the boat, stroke sequencing, backing, docking, and turning. When you successfully complete the class, you will be allowed to row the Club’s Maas Aeros, after joining the Club.
The first day of class is at the dock. Each student has practice time in a boat while being held on the dock by a fellow student.
On the second and third day, everyone rows around the lake, accompanied by an instructor in a launch giving rowing instructions and directions.
For successful completion of the class, all participants will have to demonstrate correct stroke sequence, backing, turning, and docking. The ability to back the boat into the dock safely, and get into and out of the boat correctly, must be mastered before the students will be allowed the use of the club boats.
Please wear layered, close-fitting clothing. Loose clothing may get caught in the oar handles or seat tracks and create a danger for the rower. Bring a hat, water bottle, and sunscreen. Socks are required to wear in the boat.
There is a maximum weight for rowers in our teaching boats of 220 lbs. Rowers need to have the flexibility to squat for getting in and out of the boat.