Following the resounding success of the Home International Beach Sprint trials in Donegal, coastal rowing has taken a significant step forward, now formally included in the Rowing Ireland High Performance programme.
The first phase of this new High Performance trialling process will take place this Saturday, 9th August, at the National Rowing Centre (NRC). Coastal athletes selected for this stage will complete a 2K water trial on the 6-lane Albano course. As is the case in flatwater trials, the emphasis is on individual time, not race position.
Athletes have already submitted ergometer scores as part of their application, and this weekend’s trials form the next step in the journey. The Rowing Ireland High Performance Selection Panel will assess performance data and recommend a group of athletes to progress to phase two, which will focus specifically on beach sprint trialling for future international events.
There is a strong and diverse blend of both flatwater and coastal athletes attending from across the country — a clear sign of the growing momentum behind coastal rowing in Ireland.
Saturday Trial Day – What You Need to Know
Trials are expected to begin at approximately 11:00am, following the morning session of the High Performance flatwater squad.
NRC Access
- The barrier to the National Rowing Centre will open at 09:00.
- Boat assembly can begin from 09:30 near the slips.
- Please keep the walkway into the boat bays clear to allow uninterrupted access for HP athletes returning from their session.
Boats, Equipment & Safety Requirements
- Briefing will take place at 10:00 in front of the boat bays.
- This is a 2K time trial using coastal singles.
- Boats and oars must be supplied by clubs.
- Boats must have a permanent number clearly visible on both sides (black on white, per World Rowing specification).
- All boats must comply with World Rowing international safety standards:
- Bowline attached
- PDF stowed
- Heel restraints in place and working
Boats can be left around the boat bay area, but must be kept neat and not obstruct the flow of athletes and equipment.
Site Layout & Usage Instructions
To ensure the safe and efficient running of both the High Performance training and the coastal trials, please observe the following arrangements:
- The boat bay on the far left is to be used by coastal trial athletes, with boats placed on the concrete slip.
- The long pontoon is designated for launch and recovery for the coastal trial.
- The pontoon directly in front of the main boat bay must be kept clear at all times for HP athletes training on Saturday morning.
- Changing rooms and toilets at NRC Reception are to be used by coastal trial participants.
- Changing rooms and toilets within the boat bay are reserved for High Performance athletes only.
Facilities
- Toilets will be available throughout the day.
- Showers may only be used in the event of a capsize.
Looking Ahead: Coupe and Beyond
While the Home International Beach Sprints team has already been selected, this trial represents a key opportunity for athletes aiming for selection to the Coupe de la Jeunesse Beach Sprints and other future high-performance squads.
Athletes who demonstrate the potential to reach the top eight at World and European level will be identified and supported through targeted development programmes within Rowing Ireland.
Looking further ahead, the World Rowing Beach Sprint Championships will serve as the official qualifying event for the 2026 Youth Olympic Games in Dakar, Senegal.
Rowing Ireland is proud to support the ongoing growth of coastal rowing, and looks forward to seeing athletes from both coastal and flatwater backgrounds thrive in the seasons ahead.
Please Note
All athletes, coaches, and team managers should review the following documents in advance of Saturday’s trial: