World Rowing Regatta in Pretoria

A global sports festival will grace South African turf as the 2023 World Rowing Masters Regatta takes center stage at Roodeplaat Dam in Pretoria from September 21 to 24.

Having secured the privilege to host this event in 2020, South Africa continues its honorable tradition as a pioneer, bringing yet another international sporting spectacle to Africa. In the current year alone, South Africa has proudly hosted global events such as the Netball World Cup, Indoor Hockey World Cup, World Rugby U20 Championship, and the World Table Tennis Championships.

An annual affair, the World Rowing Masters Regatta attracts rowers aged 27 and above. The races are segmented into various age categories, starting from those aged 27 and progressing up to teams with an average age of 89 or more.

For spectators, the regatta provides a rare opportunity to witness the feats of South African rowing legends. Among these champions are Olympic and world championship medalists who will vie for victory on the renowned course. Local icons in action include the impressive 93-year-old John Price, standing as one of the oldest competitors at the championships.

Roodeplaat Dam, the birthplace of South Africa’s elite rowing program, has undergone enhancements in preparation for this global showcase, leaving behind a legacy that will inspire future Olympians. Rowing has consistently outperformed expectations at the Olympic Games, with South African rowers clinching medals in Athens 2004 (bronze), London 2012 (gold), and Rio 2016 (silver).

Beyond the competitive water events, the regatta offers aspiring young rowers the chance to witness world-class rowing on their home turf, potentially igniting dreams of following in the footsteps of their illustrious compatriots. This event also equips the South African rowing community with valuable experience to host forthcoming local, regional, and international regattas.

Encompassing more than 850 athletes from 41 countries across five continents, the 2023 World Rowing Masters Regatta promises an international spectacle. Medals will be bestowed upon the victors of each race or heat final.

This rowing festival is not confined to the water’s edge but extends to the picturesque banks of Roodeplaat Dam, where thousands of supporters will immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere intrinsic to a global regatta.

Adding a novel dimension to the event, an inclusion doubles category (W, M, or MIX PR3 2x) makes its debut in the World Rowing Masters Regatta schedule. This category consists of a partnership between an able-bodied rower and a para-rower with valid classification.

The culmination of singles finals will grace the end of each day on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, featuring the eight fastest finishers from the heats in each age division.

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