FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

DO I HAVE TO HIRE OR PAY TO USE ANY EQUIPMENT?

No. Use of the club’s equipment is included in the course fee. Members of the club do not pay for equipment hire either. You’re welcome to buy your own equipment and store at the club. Please email for more information: info@swindonrowingclub.co.uk.

IS CLUB KIT COMPULSORY?

You can row in whatever colours you like but the kit is rather lovely and is required should you wish to represent Swindon RC and regattas and heads.

HOW MUCH TIME DOES ROWING TAKE UP?

In the summer months the club is open at least three days a week (for times, see the About page). When working towards races or other competitions training can be as often as 5 outings a week, but this is on an individual basis and personal goals so you can train as little or often as you like.

DO I HAVE TO BE ABLE TO SWIM?

Yes. We require that all members must be able to swim at least 50 metres fully clothed. If a member does experience a capsize whilst in a boat, they must be able to swim to the safety of the shore should the buoyancy of the boat be compromised.

IS THERE AN AGE LIMIT?

There is no upper age limit but juniors must be at least 12 years old.

WHY CAN’T CHILDREN UNDER 12 ROW?

British Rowing is our governing body so we follow their advice. It has been researched and found that starting before the age of 12 can affect a child’s muscle development adversely. We appreciate that some 12 year olds may be larger and more developed than others but we cannot take anyone on until their 12th birthday. It would go against the advice of experts and contravene our club constitution.

DO YOU CATER FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES?

It is best to contact us with your specific needs. Some disabilities and learning difficulties would cause very little change in what we would ordinarily do, others might require further equipment or training. We will always do our best to help, even if ultimately we have to direct you to British Rowing who have contact details for all affiliated rowing clubs. As the governing body of the sport, they will be able to help you find a club with facilities that can accommodate your needs.