Masters Rowing

Question
We are trying to put together a 4+ for Masters Sweep racing. Our strongest 4+ may be three men and one woman.  Is a woman allowed to row in a Mens Open or Mens Masters race?

Answer
Hi Marsha: I recall competing in the Dad Vail's in 1979 and there was a big to-do about a women being part of a men's 8.  I think the comittee made an exception for her.  I also remember racing in a boat with 6 girls and 2 guys.  We raced an all-girl's boat and won handily (It was a college alumni race, and I was part of the alumni boat).

The answer varies depending on the regatta event.  Of course, an event like the Royal Henley would not entertain it.  Also, you're regional and national championship regattas wouldn't allow it because there are similar women's events.  For more informal regattas and regattas which may not offer a women's event (such as women's 4+), they may allow it in their rules.  Any event which is an "Open" event would permit it as well.  I think club events are pretty amenable to granting waivers on a case-by-case basis.  Rowing is a fairly egalitarian sport on this regard.

There is no set rule in the USRA guidelines.  But, when  men and women in the same boat typically compete in a sanctioned "mixed-boat event," the rule is that there must be an equal number of men and women.  You might consider going 2 guys/2 gals in your 4 if you want to compete in these events.

I think the best answer is to consult the respective regatta event committee in advance.  Unless it is a very formal event, or the committee is made up of Strom Thurman-types, you're going to get the go-ahead.  With all the to-do about Martha Burk, Annika Sorenstam, and the like, not too many committees will want to get any bad press over disallowing this.

Hope that helps.

            Regards/AP