oarswomen

Oarswomen are female rowers who compete using oars in racing shells, participating in both sculling, where each rower handles two oars, and sweep rowing, where each rower uses a single oar. They compete in various boat classes, including single sculls (W1x), double sculls (W2x), pair (W2-), four (W4-), and eight (W8+), with or without a coxswain depending on the boat type.

Governance and competition for oarswomen is organized through national rowing federations and the sport’s international body, World Rowing. Women’s rowing has a long history of participation in clubs and universities, and it has grown to include prominent events at continental championships and the Olympic Games, which first included women's rowing in 1976. Over time, the sport has expanded access and opportunities for women across age groups and skill levels.

Training and preparation for oarswomen emphasize endurance, power, technique, and teamwork. Athletes engage in on-water practice, ergometer work, strength and conditioning sessions, and race strategy development. Crew coordination, stroke rate management, and precise timing are critical, particularly in sweep boats where synchronization with teammates is essential. Equipment includes racing shells, oars, rigging adjustments, and, in boats with a coxswain, coordination and communication facilitated by the cox.

Oarswomen participate at local, national, and international levels, contributing to the sport’s growth and visibility. The role of women in rowing continues to evolve with ongoing efforts toward inclusion, coaching development, and equitable competition opportunities.