The skies got dark and the winds started whipping. Strong gusts blew across the surface of the river, kicking up spray that showered the rowers. The chop got bigger, the spray more biting. The novice rowers did their best to drive against the forces of mother nature, and the novice coxswains steeled their nerves and held on tight to the steering cables…

If only the water was like glass every day, every row. But when the wind picks up, be prepared to handle it by staying relaxed and rowing well.

Rowers, coxswains, officials, and parents all play a role in creating a positive regatta experience, in which the lessons of sportsmanship rules.