How does USRowing handle practice and racing in hot weather?

Question

Accepted Answer

USRowing's Heat Safety Guidelines measure heat stress with the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT), which combines temperature, humidity, sun and wind. There are five risk levels (Very Low to Extreme), and the cut-offs depend on your region's heat category.

At USRowing-owned events:

Risk level	What happens
Moderate	Mitigation steps are taken and announced
High	Postponing racing is considered; racing goes on only with all enhanced measures in place
Extreme	All rowing is postponed until the risk drops

The guidelines also recommend:

Training in the morning and evening when temperatures above 90°F are expected
Shaded rest areas at regattas from moderate risk upward, and free drinking water for athletes
On-site first aid ready to cool athletes, including a cold-water immersion tub, ice towels and ice

Heat stroke (core temperature 105°F or higher plus confusion or collapse) is a medical emergency. The rule is "cool first, transport second."

For your rower: drink before and during practice, wear a hat that can be dampened, wear light, loose, moisture-wicking clothing, use sunscreen, and rest in the shade between races.