Task · part of 4(a). Handle a rowboat, five tasks

4(a)(2). Row 100 yards, stop, pivot, return

Optional May not apply

This may not apply to you. You have not answered "Requirement 4: boat handling, or a competitive meet?" yet. Answer it and this step will either settle or drop off.

IN A STRAIGHT LINE is the requirement, which is harder than the distance and is what the practice is for. Then a stop, a pivot on the spot, and 100 yards back. Rowing straight is a matter of both oars doing equal work, and everybody discovers their weaker arm here.

Where this step comes from

Rowing Merit Badge Requirements (Merit Badge Hub, last modified 2026-02-18), Requirement 4(a)(2) · The requirement asks for 100 yards in a straight line, then a stop, a pivot, and a return to the starting point.