Exercise · Steering

Turn and Buoy Practice

Practise approaching a turn or buoy at race pace. Improves judgement of distance and when to start the turn.

Identify the turn: point out the buoy or turn to the crew and agree the approach side.
Approach at race pace: row at full pressure so you feel speed and momentum.
Start the turn in time: begin the turn early enough that you don't overshoot; better to turn a bit early than late.
Use rudder and crew: call 'outside side pull' or 'inside side hold' if you need help tightening the turn.
Exit cleanly: straighten up as you pass the buoy and settle back into the rhythm.

In a head race, know the rules: who has overlap, when you can take the inside line.
Practise both left and right turns so you're confident in either direction.