News

We receive many questions regarding oar pitch and checking pitch on oars, so we have pulled together some oar pitch tips and information. Pitch check fixture All Concept2 oars are pitched at zero degrees at the time of purchase unless otherwise specified. The most accurate way to check oar pitch is by using a Pitch Check Fixture or similar fixture. Small corrections to the sleeve pitch are easily achieved by using a good quality scraper tool or a small sharp hand plane. Plumbline and ruler A number of coaches and rowers still like to use a plumbline and ruler method...

This month we introduce our new horizontal foot steering system for coxless rowing boats.  The horizontal foot steering system was developed in conjunction with Rowfit, our Australian innovation partner of choice when it comes to aluminium fittings and components.  This new system now comes standard on Sykes’s new full carbon hexagonal foot stretcher. The functionality is exceptional, the ease of set-up and adjustment is simple and practical, and there are no more balls of steering cable laying loose in the boat!  Also, the assembly no longer protrudes up into the rigger and the user experience is significantly enhanced. If you...

At Sykes we have developed a new range of rowing boat travel covers. Like all global suppliers of rowing boats, the norm is to wrap new boats in plastic to protect them from the elements during delivery. We have taken a simple, cost-effective innovation from our insights in the surf ski market (through Charger Surf Craft) and adapted it to rowing boats, leading to the launch of our new travel cover range for all Sykes boats. Why a travel cover? Firstly, we heard from some customers who were concerned that this single-use plastic wrap just clogs up the waste bins...

Participating in coastal rowing is a way for us all to contribute to and be part of the growth of rowing around Australia.  For many years a small group of people have been championing this sport with limited impact. It is testament to their efforts and perseverance that we are finally starting to see real progress. Coastal and recreational rowing has been very strong in mainland Europe for many years and is finally getting more attention from the World Rowing Federation and the global rowing community. Coastal rowing competition There are two formats of coastal rowing competition – one-on-one beach...

In conjunction with our recent rebranding and acknowledging the need for more connectivity with our customers, we have set up a larger sales and customer service team. They are ready to listen, talk and help. Our three new customer relationship leaders are George Richards, Alexandra (Alex) Hagan and Angus Widdicombe. All three have represented Australia at the highest level in rowing, so they truly understand the sport and the needs of athletes and coaches alike. George Richards George rowed in Victoria at Scotch College during his school years and achieved an undefeated domestic 2013 season in the 1st Division which...