The stern pitch range for sweep boats is which of the following?

• A. 3-4
• B. 5-6
• C. 4-5
• D. 6-7

Answer: (C)

Stern pitch is the angle of the stern in the water during the stroke. In sweep boats, where rowers use one oar on each side and the loading is asymmetrical, keeping the stern at a moderate, balanced angle helps the boat move efficiently and stay stable.

The preferred range is four to five degrees. This mid-range pitch provides clean water flow past the stern, helps the boat track well, and supports a solid catch and release. If the stern sits too low, drag increases and the boat loses responsiveness. If it sits too high, the stern can feel unstable and the boat may become difficult to control at the catch. So, four to five degrees offers the best balance for speed and stability in sweep rowing.