So Sony have introduced headphones for rowers, as demonstrated in this (admittedly quite cool) video:
I have to say I think this is one of the craziest ideas I’ve heard in a long time. I suppose, in the interests of balance, I should acknowledge that even at the best of times I’m not a fan of headphones. I don’t wear them on the rare occasion I go out for a run, preferring to hear the birds (and the chainsaws – I run in woodland). I don’t wear them on the erg, either – although I need music to keep me going, I don’t like the feeling of wearing headphones. And my inability to multitask means that when I once tried wearing them when out and about in London, I kept bumping into things and losing my way.
But seriously. When rowing? A sport that you do backwards? How do you hear the inevitable cry of “SCULLLEEEEERRRRRR” from the eight powering down towards you? Or the chunter of the pleasure boat that you’re about to hit? Or the roar of the appreciative crowds on the bank? (OK, maybe not that one).
I couldn’t help noticing that the video cuts out a touch abruptly, though. He looks like he’s rowing right out in the middle of the river, so do you think that’s the moment when he collides with a quad?
Tell me what you think about this. Am I being too po-faced? Do the single scullers amongst you think it’s a marvelous idea? Hang, on, what’s that? I can’t hear you. I’ll just have to take my headphones … BANG!!!