Early this morning, Mike and Squidette rode to the Village Community boathouse on Pier 40 to take a day long coxswain certification course. They have both been involved with the Stuyvesant H.S. rowing club -- Mike as a faculty adviser and Squidette as a novice club member. Today was the day that they got certified to Cox a boat on their own. That means that both of them can essential captain one of these craft.These craft are 25" Whitehall Skiffs which are crewed by 4 rowers and a coxswain. They are, according to Mike, capable of going about 3 knots. No, I really do not understand what I just typed but know it has something to do with speed.
Not-So-Little (aka Preteen) Squid and I went out on a public row while Mike and Squidette split their time between the water and the classroom as they earned their certifications.
It was a lot of fun and I learned the following:
- Even the best sunblock, properly applied, cannot combat 3 hours on the water at midday.
- I have no padding on my sitbones.
- My biking callouses are mostly sufficient for rowing -- I only have one blister on my right hand and none on my left.
- The Hudson River really is salty!
We all had fun and are all now pretty tired. I fully expect Preteen Squid to fall asleep as soon as his head hits the pillow despite his being rather perky right now.
This may turn into a weekly activity once school ends.
4 comments:
What fun! I just bookmarked the site as a "something to do this summer."
Sounds like great fun and good exercise!
How cool. I don't usually think of boating and water sports when I think NYC! At least the Hudson is clean compared to the catastrophe in the Gulf. :-(
awesome! i wish mike & squidette much luck and enjoyment! open water + sun = burnt .. glad you aren't too crispy.
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