23/05/2026
That moment at a regatta as you leave the laughs on the beach, heading to the start line, and it’s time to lock in.
200m
Mind cleared, time to focus, as you find the gentle warm up rhythm.
Sweep balances the boat, finds their stance, and asks you to lock hips to the gunnel.
Drummer secures their feet, stick tightly in hand, legs locked around the drum, watching the stroke ready to gauge the tempo.
Strokes find the timing together, glancing at each other, locking in, ready to lead.
Coach steadies the nerves, gives the race plan and yells a lift or two to get the muscles moving and motivate the crew.
Before you know it, it’s time.
You’re at the line and the starter is instructing you into position.
The heart races.
The breath shortens.
The boat is silent.
22 people set, still, paddles held mm above the water, boat held tight to position.
And no one moves a muscle…….until….
