Learn to row and participate in a regatta.

“I started rowing fall of 2021. Did my first regattas (both in quads) last fall, so had about the same amount of experience as you. And like you, I opted to wait until I wouldn't be a liability to my teammates before I started racing. I didn't screw up so I think I started racing at about the right time. Can you row in time with other people consistently without catching crabs for 2-5K? Then you're probably ready to give it a shot. Last year, I had like zero experience with sprint starts, so I waited for head race season to try. Starts don't matter as much there since you're already at race speed when you pass through the chute and the clock starts.”

“Take comfort in the idea that if you’re entering a novice masters event, there are plenty of competitors in your shoes. There will be crabs, missed water every catch, circuitous coxing routes, you name it. In short, even if/when you screw up, you’re not alone! Focus on your technique even if it means you aren’t pushing as hard. Have fun with your teammates. Make sure to celebrate your first race after you’re done :) Edit to add short story: someone in my quad caught TWO crabs at my last regatta and we still got 2nd and it was one of my favorite races of all time.”