Female, 5'6", 120 lbs. I am interested in taking up sculling this spring. I've done quite a bit of rowing with other crafts in the past, but this will be my first experience with a sculling skiff. I've begun training on a machine at home, but have yet to acquire a water craft as I am really unsure of where to begin. The fact that I now live in a very isolated Mountain-Desert region of Utah has made my search quite difficult. I'd greatly appreciate advice regarding any of the following questions:

Where can I purchase a used shell? What is the best model for a beginner who may be interested in competing in the future? How much should I expect to pay for a used model? Would it be worth it to build my own shell? If so, who should I contact about building one?

Thank you! Laura McKerracher Boulder, Utah

-- Laura McKerracher (lauramckerracher@hotmail.com), January 04, 2002

Answers

Hi Laura,

I researched various boat types and last summer I bought a Heritage Rowing Dory, 15 feet. I love it. Its more stable and can take the wakes of other boats better than a regular skull. You can even put a small carry on or lunch tote on board. I row in the Westport River, East Branch here in Massachusetts. Good luck, LittleRiver Marine Co. sells them from Florida. Tell Bill Larson I sent you, I can't wait till the river thaws this spring. Happy rowing, Annie

-- Annie Rosinha (oceanannie@mindspring.com), January 04, 2002.

I have a few used shells available for sale, and a solution to the transportation issue. Please contact me if you're interested.

-- Kim Apel (kapel@fullerton.edu), January 09, 2002.

Laura, My younger daughter and I have been inspired by my older daughter (who rowed for Brown U a couple of years ago) and started looking for a venue to get involved here in Denver, CO which has a terrain similar to the one you find yourself in. Surprisingly we were able to find a couple of rowing clubs which have programs for people of varying skill. You may want to check out and find a club in your area.

-- Henry Chu (heninden@yahoo.com), January 09, 2002.

Laura, If you're interested in building a scull, be sure to check out Chesapeake Light Craft's website at www.clcboats.com. I've personally tried out both their Oxford Shell and their Annapolis Wherry and anyone with determination and some woodworking experience should be able to build either one, particularly if purchased as a kit. I liked both boats equally, though the Oxford Shell is a bit tipsy as most sculls can be expected to be.

Regards, Tom

-- Tom Anderson (tomcrysa@yahoo.com), January 09, 2002.