Surf Boat Rowing
Latest Surf Boat News
Pictures of the launch can be found in the Surf Boat Rowing Gallery
Information on Surf Boat Rowing
The Club has managed to secure a Surf Rowing Boat on loan for the 2008 season. This page will explain the sport and give some history and information on the Whitmore Bay Surf Boat.
What is Surf Boat Rowing??
Originally used in Australia, surf boats rescued swimmers too far out to be reached by the belt and reel technique. With the introduction of inflatable rescue boats (IRB), the Surf Boat is no longer used in rescues but now forms part of lifesaving competitions. Powered by a 4 person crew with oars and steered by a fifth person - the Sweep, boats race through the surf and return to the beach on a wave. This video will explain everything -
The Whitmore Bay SLSC Surf Boat
The sport is still relatively new to the UK and so all the UK boats are imported from Australia. The Club's surf boat was made for Burning Palms SLSC in New South Wales, and has since been used by 3 Devon and Corwall Clubs before finding it's way to Wales. The hull and seats are fibreglass, the rails and supports are wooden and the oars are carbon fibre. Here are some pictures -
More Information
Our friends in Llantwit Major have helped the Club arrange the surf boat loan and with it's refurbishment and will be offering advice and support with training (until we start beating them!).
The UK Surf Rowers League have more information on the sport and dates of events for 2008