The British Rowing Team does not mess around in preparation for the upcoming Olympics. As reported in the SUN newspaper, the Brits are not going to the Hamburg World Cup because of E.Coli fear in Germany. In my opinion, the team management is right, better play it safe, than being sorry in the end, especially because the regatta in Hamburg is of no important consequence for the World Championship or qualification spots for the Olympics.
One tip I have for everyone who handles oars, and communal fitness equipment: Do disinfect them often. It is not unusual for rowers to have little booboos on their hands from all the training they do. Staff infection is a serious health problem that has to be addressed in a very timely manner when it occurs. Signs of a staff infection appear through discoloration of the blood veins. When this occurs, waist no time and go get medical help.
For rowing team managers, I highly recommend bringing bottled water to regattas and hotels. You may live in an area where drinking from the faucet is Ok, but do not take it for granted when you travel somewhere different.
As an example, we refrained from eating locally made ice-cream and tiramisu when we trained in Italy.... Simply put, in order to stay safe from any food poisoning stick to what is known to you even if it makes eating a bit boring. The goal is row fast and not to go on a culinary bonanza :0)
picture Sun News U.K.
Xeno Muller, Olympic gold and silver medalist, indoor rowing, rowing technique.
