Get ready for a thrilling spectacle as the world's elite coastal rowers converge in Antalya, Türkiye, for the 2025 World Rowing Beach Sprint Finals (November 6–9). This isn't your typical rowing event—it's a high-octane blend of speed, strategy, and sand that's set to make waves at the LA 2028 Olympics. But here's where it gets even more exciting: this year's event is a preview of the discipline's Olympic debut, and it's packed with more boat classes than ever before. Catch all the action live on the Olympic Channel—links are below.
But here's where it gets controversial: Beach sprint rowing flips the script on traditional rowing. Instead of starting in the water, athletes sprint down the beach, leap into their boats, navigate a buoy course, and then dash back to the finish line. It’s a heart-pounding, head-to-head format that demands both land and sea prowess. And this is the part most people miss—it’s not just about strength; it’s about split-second timing and explosive speed.
This year’s finals are historic, featuring a record ten boat classes, including the debut of the Inclusion Mixed Double Sculls (INMix2x) as a championship category. Three of these classes—men's solo (Mx1), women's solo (Wx1), and mixed double sculls (Mix2x)—are slated for the LA 2028 Olympics, giving fans a sneak peek at what’s to come.
In the men’s solo category, reigning world champion Chris Bak of the USA will defend his title against a star-studded field. Among his challengers? Olympic champion Spencer Turrin of Australia, Finland’s Joel Naukkarinen, New Zealand’s Finlay Hamill, and Great Britain’s European champion James Cox. Who will emerge victorious? Will Bak hold on, or will a new champion rise?
The women’s solo event promises fireworks as New Zealand’s Olympic medallist Emma Twigg faces off against Austria’s reigning World and European Beach Sprint Champion, Magdalena Lobnig. Adding to the drama are Olympians Martyna Radosz of Poland, Hanna Prakatsen of Uzbekistan, America’s Christine Cavallo, and Great Britain’s Laura Mackenzie. Is this Twigg’s chance to reclaim the top spot, or will Lobnig solidify her dominance?
The program also includes mixed quadruple sculls (Mix4x), under-19 men’s and women’s solo (JM1x, JW1x), under-19 men’s and women’s double sculls (JM2x, JW2x), and under-19 mixed double sculls (JMix2x). With so much talent on display, every race is a must-watch.
But here’s the question we’re all asking: Will beach sprint rowing live up to the hype at the Olympics, or will it remain a niche sport? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
Full Schedule (Local Time UTC+3):
Thursday, 6 November
- 09:00: Heats – JM1x, JW1x, JM2x, JMix2x
- 13:00: Heats – M1x, W1x, Mix4x, Mix2x
- 15:45: Repechage – JM2x, JW2x
Friday, 7 November
- 08:30: Heats – JM1x, JW1x, M1x, W1x, JMix2x, Mix2x
- 11:50: Heat – INMix2x
- 13:30: Last 16 – JM1x, JW1x, JMix2x
- 15:25: Last 8 – JM2x, JW2x
Saturday, 8 November
- 08:45: Repechage – INMix2x, Mix4x
- 09:40: Last 16 – M1x, W1x, Mix2x
- 13:05: Last 8 – JM1x, JW1x, JMix2x
- 16:00: Victory Ceremony – JM2x, JW2x, JM1x, JW1x, JMix2x
Sunday, 9 November
- 09:05: Last 8 – Mix4x, M1x, W1x, Mix2x, INMix2x
- 15:00: Victory Ceremony & Closing Ceremony
How to Watch:
Live coverage is available on the Olympic Channel via Olympics.com (territorial restrictions may apply). Additional live streaming on Saturday and Sunday from 9:00 local time (UTC+3) is accessible at worldrowing.com.
Don’t miss this chance to witness the future of rowing—fast, fierce, and unlike anything you’ve seen before. Who do you think will dominate the sands of Antalya? Share your predictions below!
