You’re interested in rowing, but, don’t know where to start? You’ve come to the right place. Here is a handy guide for those new to the Royal St. John’s Regatta.
There are six people in a boat for fixed-seat rowing. Along with the Coxswain, Number six (or the stroke) sets the pace. The even numbers are the stroke side and odd numbers are the bow side. Generally, your Coxswain will determine the position number, unless you have had previous experience and preference.
Once you have collected six people, you are ready for the next step.
This step is VERY important as you cannot get into a shell without a trained Coxswain. The best way to find a Coxswain is ask around the dock to see if anyone knows of anyone available, check out our online bulletin board or check the bulletin board at the Boathouse.
You could also check with our Technical Director, they may be able to lead you in the right direction.
You now have enough people to row your shell and someone to steer it. Next you will need to determine what age category your team falls under. This is very important in determining the fee amount, which will arm you with better knowledge when approaching a potential team sponsor.
Coxwains must be 19 years of age as of December 31 of this year.
Minimum age of any oarsperson is 10 years, as of December 31 this year.
The Royal St. John’s Regatta Committee charges a very low fee for Rowers to train at Quidi Vidi Lake the entire summer and participate in the Royal St. John’s Regatta and June Race Day Regatta as such, some teams do not have a sponsor and opt to pay the registration fees themselves. However, many teams do find a team sponsor.
Be sure to include information pertinent to a sponsor such as, where their money is going and what they will get in return. Don’t forget, it is not just the fees for which you are seeking financial assistance, it’s also potentially team uniforms etc.
Check out our sample sponsorship letter which details exactly what the sponsor will receive in place of their sponsorship. Feel free to modify the areas highlighted in yellow and use this letter when approaching your potential sponsors.
The final step in establishing a team is registration!
Registration for the Royal St. John’s Regatta will open in April, with boats going back on the pond on May 1, 2023.
Remember, you also have the option to participate in the Placentia Regatta ,the Harbour Grace Regatta and the Corner Brook Regatta. Most teams who train at our facility to participate in all three Regattas on the Avalon and some participate in Corner Brook. These fees are separate from the Royal St. John’s Regatta fees and participation is highly encouraged, but, not required.
Now; with your full team, coxswain and sponsor, you are ready to enjoy the sport of fixed-seat rowing.