The 2025 U19 World Rowing Championships concluded today in Trakai, Lithuania, in challenging conditions with a strong headwind. The Junior Men’s Double of Jack Rafferty and Jonah Kirby made history by winning gold and securing Rowing Ireland’s first-ever medal in a men’s event at the U19 World Championships. All five Rowing Ireland crews delivered strong performances, with every boat placing inside the top ten. 

JM2x | Jonah Kirby & Jack Rafferty 

The Junior Men’s Double took the gold medal in today’s final. At the 500-metre mark, the crew began to push away from the field and had clear water by 900 metres. Their lead continued to grow throughout the race, and they crossed the line with two lengths of clear water in a time of 06:39.57. 

JW2x | Sophia Young & Aoife Hendy 

The Junior Women’s Double finished fifth in their final. Sitting in sixth for much of the race, they surged past Poland and battled with Hungary for fourth place but narrowly missed out. They crossed the line in 07:55.30. 

JW4- | Anna O’Grady, Cloda Phillips, Isabella Wright & Sarah Rockett 

The Junior Women’s Four placed 2nd in this morning’s B Final. The crew led through the halfway mark, but a strong push from Croatia in the second half saw them cross the line in second place. They recorded a time of 07:24.55. 

JM4- | Daniel Crozier, Tommy Little, Richard Heaslip & Paul Schofield 

The Junior Men’s Four finished 4th in the B Final. At the 1000-metre mark, the crew sat in fifth, but a strong finish saw them overtake Serbia to cross the line in fourth place, clocking 06:41.04. 

JM4x | Evan O’Byrne, Mattias Cogan, Bill Murphy & Harry McCarthy 

The Junior Men’s Quadruple Scull won the B Final. Sitting in second after the first 500 metres, the crew moved into the lead in the second quarter and held their position despite late sprint finishes from Belgium and France. They crossed the line in 06:20.48. 

It was a landmark regatta for Rowing Ireland, with history made in the men’s double and every crew finishing inside the world’s top ten. Congratulations to all the athletes for their dedication and outstanding performances. A heartfelt thanks goes to the coaching team for their continued support and excellent work behind the scenes. Special thanks also to the athletes’ home clubs for the vital role they play in supporting their success. 

Thank you to the Rowing Ireland sponsors for their continued support throughout the year.

Photo Credits: World Rowing