Could an average, me, Masters swimmer beat an average person in a rowboat? You know this started as a bet and I think I might be able to do it. The race would be around 400 meters in open water with a turn around. I'm going to ask for a start from the dock as well.
I'm pretty much an average swimmer, for Masters anyway. I can do 1:25-1:30 100 meters and 6-6:15 for a 400 meters in practice. He would be in an older metal, flat bottom, triangular rowboat.
I've tried to see how fast a rowboat goes, but I've seen way too much variation, usually between 1-5 knots, with the average being 2-3.
Do you think it's possible I can beat him? I think I can take him, especially with the start and turn around. Has anyone else attempted such a race, and did you win?
Parents
Former Member
The things people do when they bet with their mates! I can't say I have raced against a boat before but having swam in lots of races and also rowed a few boats, I would say the boat has the upper hand.
Definitely have a wetsuit and make it over a shorter distance. If you can get the race into the breeze also this will help as the height of the boat will increase the amount of resistance. And maybe......find a way to cheat
The things people do when they bet with their mates! I can't say I have raced against a boat before but having swam in lots of races and also rowed a few boats, I would say the boat has the upper hand.
Definitely have a wetsuit and make it over a shorter distance. If you can get the race into the breeze also this will help as the height of the boat will increase the amount of resistance. And maybe......find a way to cheat
