Get Rowing at BSC

Easier than you think... Really!

A perfect way to spend those wind-less, no-sailing days

A great way to socialise and meet members

Rowing and paddlesports is year-round fun, exercise and action on the water for recreation or a full-on challenge.

Coastal rowing, kayaking and supping are excellent ways to keep fit and are very sociable sports. Whether you are up for a physical challenge, a lazy Sunday paddle or want the kids to have some fun on (and in) the water, there's something for all ages and abilities at BSC. We offer multiple ways for members to get involved in paddlesports, whether you're a regular rower or a complete novice paddler.

Book on to our various sessions (see below) or simply hire out the club kit for your own adventure. All paddlesports kit hire is free to members on weekdays.

The club hosts coastal rowing and paddlesports events, racing with other harbour clubs, SUP safaris and boat loans to try out some new toys! Keep an eye on the club calendar and also have a look at the 'Rowing Sessions and Exercise' page and let us know if anything whets your appetite.

One big date for your diary is our next Rowing Regatta and Swift Winter Rowing Series on the 23rd March 2024.

If you're not already, get in touch with Peter Haining, our class captain, so you can be added to the paddlesports WhatsApp group. He'll happily chat you through the system and find you a seat in one of the regular crews.

Coxed sessions

These sessions are coxed by members and will be varied depending on the cox's style and experience; some may steer and leave the crew to sort themselves out, others may do drills and mix things up a bit. They are informal rowing sessions and a great way to meet people at BSC and see what rowing is about. These sessions are open to all members. They are free during the week (when there is no boat hire charge) with a small charge at the weekend to cover the boat hire fee.

We are always on the hunt for more people to cox so we can run more sessions. If you've fancied rowing but you're worried about injuries or fitness, coxing is a perfect way to get afloat and enjoy some time on the water. We will be running coxing courses from time to time so keep an eye out in the newsletter and do get in touch if you can't wait until then!

Coached sessions

These sessions are entirely different to the coxed sessions in that they are coached.

Our class captain, Peter, is an ex Olympic and Commonwealth Games rower, and leads our coached sessions, although not to Olympic level!. Currently there are two types of session that members can book onto:

• 1)Technique session: These are open rowing sessions for all members of all rowing abilities. The session focuses on the technique of rowing and will feature a variety of drills and feedback to improve rowing efficiently and performance. Between drills there will be rest periods. These are great sessions to improve your technique and get some feedback on your own rowing.
• 2)Sport rowing session: These open sport rowing sessions are open to all members but targeted to more serious rowers or those looking for more of a workout. The session could be anything from sprint intervals to endurance rows. Be ready to work as a crew. This session has fewer breaks than the technique session and will be physically more taxing, but you'll feel great for it.

All coached sessions are bookable on the website calendar, costing £7.50 per rower. Weekend coached sessions when they are on, will also incur the boat hire fee.

Self-led rowing

A little paddle to Deep End and pick up a buoy for a refreshment stop, or maybe a long row to East Head or Dell Quay? Find your crew and go for a row.

You are also responsible for your own safety, so take a look at the Major Incident Plan under 'Downloads' below as well as the SOPs for the craft you are using.

You need to book your boat, get your crew, cover all your safety checks and then you can have some fun. All club boats are free to members on weekdays (except bank holidays) with a small fee for weekend use.

Click on the 'How to Book' page for more information and detail on the small print or click here to book a boat now.

Fun Rowing

New for Saturday mornings! The aim is to have all of our rowing boats out on the water and for rowers to have a go at everything. Be that steering, sculling, rowing or the coveted pilot seat in Valiant where you can sit back relax.

It's open to members of all abilities so if you fancy giving rowing a go, this is the perfect opportunity to find out what it's all about. Be warned you'll be sure to catch the rowing bug! The session will take shape on the day looking at conditions and the crews we have - whatever the plan on the day, it's guaranteed to be great fun.

The sessions will either be led by our class captain and coach, Peter Haining, or another competent rower - you'll be in safe hands.

Other coaching sessions

If you have a crew, or perhaps you fancy a one to one on Nimrod, you can also have coaching from Peter. All sessions will be billed and payable through Bosham Sailing Club.

If you have any questions or are unsure what is best for you - drop Peter an email.

Last updated 12:17 on 14 March 2024