Building Long Island's Rowing Tradition

Capsizing Drill

Stay with your boat because it is buoyant and can be used as a flotation device.
If the boat has sunk, an oar can be used instead.
Hold on to the boat, and regain composure by taking a few deep breaths to prepare yourself to re-enter the boat.
If you are not far from an accessible bank or landing, it may be possible to swim to the bank with the boat where you could re-enter the boat with the help from your coach.
To get back into the boat from the water when the boat is upright, follow these instructions:

Move to the stern side of the boat and place the stern oar closest to you, across the boat.
Reach across the boat and retrieve the bow side oar.
Position your body so that your right side is against the stern side rigger and your left side is against the stern side of the boat.
Place your left hand on the bow side gunwale of the boat.
With your right hand, take hold of both oar handles in the centre of the boat.
Push the seat back with your left hand, hoist your torso up onto the deck of the boat swinging around so that you are sitting on the deck with both legs dangling in the water on the stern side of the boat, all the while holding both oar handles with your right hand.
Sling your left leg over the bow deck hanging both feet in the water straddling the boat. (Do not hang your feet inside the riggers).
Find your balance.
Reposition yourself on the seat, place your feet back into your shoes.
Get your breath back, and now you’re ready to go!