Minneapolis Sprints

  • Hosted By:  Minneapolis Rowing Club
  • USRowing Sanctioned Regatta
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MINNEAPOLIS SPRINTS - IMPORTANT HEAT SAFETY INFORMATION

We’re glad you’ll be joining us tomorrow!

It’s going to be extremely hot this weekend due to a national heat wave. To help keep everyone safe, we’ve shortened the time between races from 10 minutes to 8 minutes so we can run more events earlier in the day when it’s cooler. We’ll also have a fully staffed medical tent ready in case anyone needs help with heat-related issues.

There’s no single temperature that makes rowing unsafe, but being out in the heat for long periods can be risky. Most sports guidelines say that when it’s really hot, you should limit hard activity to 40 minutes an hour and take 20-minute breaks. Rowing races are short and warmups are usually moderate, so that part is fine, but being outside for hours without breaks, shade, or water can still be dangerous.

The good news? You can prevent most heat-related problems. Athletes and coaches should keep an eye on each other and come prepared for the heat.

Key Areas to Lookout For:

1. Hydration
Start hydrating well before race day. Drink every 10-15 minutes. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty. Every athlete should have a water bottle in the boat with them. Bring extra water and electrolyte drinks, along with snacks for your team.

2. Heat & Sun Exposure
Wear loose, breathable clothes with sun protection (ex: hats, sunglasses, sunscreen) to reduce heat stress. Seek out shade whenever possible, as standing in the shade can make it feel up to 7°F cooler. Don’t be hesitant to splash water on your neck and legs, it cools the body. While resting, if comfortable, remove shoes and soak feet and legs in the lake.

3. Personal Wellness
If you’ve been sick recently or have a health condition that makes you more vulnerable to heat, adjust your race plans accordingly.

Know the Warning Signs:

  • Heat Exhaustion: Heavy sweating, dizziness, weakness, nausea, and a fast but weak pulse.
  • Heat Stroke: Very high body temperature, hot dry skin, confusion, fainting, or seizures.

If someone shows signs of heat illness, please visit the on-site first aid station, which will be staffed with medical volunteers.

Helpful Resources:

Stay safe, stay hydrated, and we’ll see you at the course!

 

June 20, 2025