Please see our Swim Test page for the most up-to-date swim test information.

Basic swimming ability is required for class participation. Rowing is a water sport and it's important that you feel confident in the water in case of an emergency. All students must take and successfully complete the Swim Test (swim 50 yards, tread water for 10 minutes, and don a life jacket while in the water) prior to your first class.

If you can demonstrate that you currently have, or were certified within the last 5 years, as a lifeguard or SCUBA diver, we will check you off. In addition, if you are currently on a swim team, you can have you coach sign-off on our swim test.

Please bring your completed Swim Test Form, SCUBA certification, or Life Guard certification to your first class. Alternatively, you may have your swim coach send email, or email a photo of your PADI credential or send a link to the American Red Cross roster to our swim test admin.

What if I am not a strong swimmer?

• You may take the swim test wearing a life jacket if necessary. However, if you take the swim test while wearing a life jacket, you must then wear your own life jacket at all times while in a boat. We recommend an automatic inflatable life jacket (available online or at shops such as Rutabaga Paddlesports and West Marine).
  
• If you are unable to pass the swim test, you can drop the class and will be able to get a refund up to one week before class starts. If you tare uncertain you would be able to pass the swim test requirement with or without a life jacket, we suggest that you attempt to take the test before registering for a class.

How do I complete the swim test? 

• You may complete the swim test at a pool that is convenient for you. We suggest you contact the pool's aquatics director before coming to take the test as they may need to schedule or alert the guards on duty. You should ask if they have a life jacket you can use.
• If you need to borrow a life jacket to demonstrate the skill we require, please contact the LTR admin to arrange for a loan. Bring rowing clothes (tee shirt and shorts) that you can swim in and our Swim Test Form for the pool lifeguard to sign when you complete the test.
• You may also take the swim test in the lake. When the UW Union swimming pier has lifeguard hours they will be able to sign you off. If the current season's coaching staff includes a certified lifeguard, you can take the test by the boathouse when the water temperature is safe. Please contact learntorow@mendotarowingclub.com to make arrangements for a test with MRC staff.
• If you are looking for a pool, try places2swim.com. The Middleton-Cross Plains High School indoor pool has administered tests for us in the past and knows what to expect. We recommend you take advantage of their $2 entry fee during their Last Call Swims (the last hour they are open for the day). Check their webpage for open swim hours. We also try to keep a list of open pools on our Swim Test Page.