Rowing

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Introduction

Rowing was included for the first time in the Paralympic program in 2008. Commonly known as para-rowing, it is open to people with a physical impairment or vision impairment in sweep rowing or sculling disciplines.

All images © to Rowing Australia / Delly Carr

How to Row

The hull of the para-rowing boat is identical to able-bodied boats. Para-rowing boats are equipped with special seats, which vary according to the disability of the rower. There are a range of boat types appropriate for varying disabilities including a sliding seat, seats with postural support for those with spinal injury or cerebral palsy, whilst smaller boats are equipped with buoyancy devices which act as stabilisers. 

Who can Row

Impairment Type

-    Physical Impairment
-    Vision Impairment
-    Intellectual Impairment

Classification

Every Rower is classified based on their functional ability:

  • PR3 = Legs, Trunk and Arms

  • PR2 = Trunks and Arms

  • PR1 = Arms and shoulders only

How Do I Get Classified?

To determine an athlete’s class, a panel of approved classifiers will observe the athlete’s movements during both light and heavy exercises. If you wish to gain a classification please contact your state based organization. They will be able to assist you to get involved or provide details of opportunities to get classified.

Where can you participate?

AUSTRALIA

Rowing Australia
P: (02) 6100 1115
E: para@rowingaustralia.com.au

STATE / TERRITORIES

New South Wales

Rowing NSW
P: +61 2 9555 6111
www.rowingnsw.asn.au

Queensland

Rowing Queensland
P: +61 7 3842 1200
www.rowingqld.asn.au/home/

Victoria

Rowing Victoria
P: +61 3 9645 0624
www.rowingvictoria.asn.au/home/

Australian Capital Territory

Rowing ACT
P: +61 406 376 666
www.rowingact.org.au

Tasmania

Rowing Tasmania
P: +61 482 769 464
www.rowingtasmania.com.au/home/

South Australia

Rowing South Australia
P: +61 8 8242 3288
www.rowingsa.asn.au

Western Australia

Rowing WA
P: +61 8 9364 3905
www.rowingwa.asn.au/home/

 

Resources

Videos

Intro to Para-Rowing from Australian Paralympic Committee 

Documents

International Rule Book from Rowing Australia