Posted by Andy Clayton on January 02, 2007 at 20:34:48 from 83.104.41.160 user cousin_jack.
In Reply to: Re: Rowing "Navy Style" posted by Jock on January 02, 2007 at 15:01:23:
I don't think A.R. expected his readers to know the details of naval activities, but at that time, and for many years, the navy was THE service and highly respected. Quoting 'navy style' implied that John was aspiring to high standards with his rowing.
Remembering my sea-cadet days and rowing 20' whalers around Falmouth harbour, I recall the discipline of maintaining the rhythm, not splashing, and keeping the oar low to the surface between pulls. Unlike Timothy who was accused of 'windmilling'! A crime!
I also remember being told that there was a minimum size of boat, below which one didn't 'toss the oar' - alas that footage has slipped my memory and the C19th instructions shown earlier dosn't mention it. Anyone know it?
Andy.