The Cheat's Guide to the Crossover Points

This guide was written by the CUCBC coxing rep in February 2005.

The crossover points are located in Plough Reach and The Gut. They are both marked by a large sign, which directs you to cross over to the other side of the river. Between these two points you should be travelling on the left-hand side of the river.
The aim of the crossover points [or at least a lucky side-effect of their existence] is to allow upstream crews (those travelling back towards the boathouses) to take the racing line round Grassy. This indicates that people may well be travelling at some speed between the two points, and so it is crucial that they are navigated correctly.
There have been major incidents at both crossover points over the past five years which have resulted in serious injury and damage to equipment.

When your bow reaches the sign, steer towards the opposite bank, travel to it, then straighten up.
It is possible to do this all on the rudder if travelling with sufficient speed, or you can stop and steer over using the rowers.
If you are travelling downstream, you may have to give way to crews coming upstream towards you as they have right of way.
If you have to stop to give way, easy, stop the boat on your side of the river, wait for the upstream crew to come past, then cross over yourself and proceed.

...reach the crossover point, drift half-heartedly into the middle of the river, then travel along there. You need to get on to the correct side of the river and then continue.
...go round Grassy on the wrong side of the river - crews coming the other way won't see you 'til it's too late.
...cross over early or late - you will confuse other crews and end up in the wrong place. Remember that crews on the wrong side of the river have no right of way over anyone, regardless of which direction they're travelling in.
...be impetuous and go diving across if there are crews in the way.
...stop unnecessarily around the crossover points - it will undoubtedly obstruct other crews.
...keep rowing if you end up on the wrong side of the river for whatever reason. Wait, cross over, continue.

Keep calm - once you get used to them the crossover points are very easy to do; just keep your patience.
Make your move clear and decisive: reach the crossover point, steer clearly at the other bank and go; it means every other crew around you knows exactly what you are doing.
Talk to other crews if you are unsure as to their intentions e.g. "Newnham, what are you doing, are you crossing over?"
Email any questions to the CUCBC Coxing Rep: coxing@cucbc.org