The 2025 World Rowing Under 23 Championships came to a close today in Poznań, Poland, with Holly Davis of Lee Valley Rowing Club wrapping up Ireland’s campaign with a 6th place finish in the A Final of the U23 Women’s Single Sculls. Competing against a world-class field, Holly showed great composure and determination to secure a top-six finish on the final day of racing.
Earlier in the regatta, Martin O’Grady and Donagh Claffey (University of Galway) delivered a standout performance in the A Final of the U23 Men’s Double Sculls, winning bronze in a nail-biting sprint finish — just 0.01 seconds off the silver medal. Their result marked Ireland’s only podium of the championships and one of the closest finishes of the event.
In the U23 Lightweight Women’s Single Sculls, Sophia Monahan (Shandon Boat Club) claimed 5th place in the A Final after a strong and consistent series of races through the early rounds.
The U23 Women’s Double Sculls crew of Izzy Clements (Tara Rowing Club & Edinburgh University BC) and Anna Keating (Shannon Rowing Club) placed 3rd in the B Final, showing resilience and composure across their races.
The U23 Men’s Four of Fionn McDonnell (UL RC), Luke Dunleavy (UCD BC), Jack Gorman (Shandon BC), and Sean O’Neill (UL RC) also finished 3rd in their B Final — a solid performance in a highly competitive field.
Rounding out the Irish crews, the U23 Men’s Quadruple Sculls of Shane Rafferty, Shane McLoughlin, Ciarán O’Sullivan, and Donnacha Keeley — all representing University of Galway — produced a strong row to finish 3rd in the C Final.
With six Irish boats competing and multiple appearances in Finals, the championships were a valuable opportunity for athletes to gain experience, test themselves at international level, and continue building towards future success.
Rowing Ireland extends its congratulations to all athletes, coaches, and support staff for their efforts and commitment throughout the campaign.
Photo Credit: World Rowing
