The object is to set the final cadence on the arms only strokes and maintain that cadence as you lengthen out. In the four, we're good at a 32, and I haven't tried to push the envelope any further. In the single, I'm ok up to about a 40, but I suspect that is simply because it doesn't take as much force to accellerate a single up to sprint speed in just a few strokes. Then full slide rowing for five or ten and either a glide or paddle if we're going to walk back into the shorter strokes and do it again. Again, the object of the drill is to maintain the same cadence and ratio throughout the lengthening process and feel the boat jump each time slides lengthen.
Connection is key to making the whole thing work.
Now back to the regatta. In a sharp contrast to our four, my singles heat was a piece of cake, even on four hours of sleep after prom. Four boats, three advance. But perhaps it was my lack of sleep, or lack of self-confidence, but I looked at my time as 4th overall in the heats and got scared. I got nervous.