PAIN & PUDDLES
HISTORY & CULTURE
The sport of rowing has long been dominated by white men of privilege. Recent diversity and inclusion initiatives have started to turn the tide. These posts look back at how we got to where we are today.
UW Coach Hiram Conibear: Influencing the Stroke More than a Century Later
Coach Hiram Conibear’s experimentation with the stroke led him to be known as the father of rowing at UW and revolutionized college rowing in the early 20th century.
1800s: While White Men of Privilege Were Establishing Boat Clubs…
Men of elite society formed athletic and social clubs to build and maintain status. Outside the boathouse doors, America was challenging and changing.
Race for Doggett's Coat & Badge: A Thames Institution Since 1715
For more than 300 years, a 7,400m stretch of the River Thames has drawn young watermen to compete for prizes, and for many, carry on a family tradition.
Diversity in Rowing: Pressing into the Wind
Breaking rowing's centuries-long veil of white privilege won't happen fast, but diversity in rowing is a hot button issue that hopefully won't flame out.
Boathouse Row: A Foot in the Door
With mid-19th century boathouses boasting a long list of elite rowers, Boathouse Row can seem inaccessible to outsiders. Getting in is easier than expected.
Check out this rowing machine patent from 1900
Inventor Edward J. Kerns sought to recreate, as much as possible, a boat to be rowed on land – incorporating feathering oars, adjustable foot rests, and the ability to connect several machines.