This year, the largest rowing regatta organized by the World Rowing Federation will take place in Brandenburg an der Havel, Germany. From September 11th to 15th, more than 3,600 rowers will compete on the historic Beetzsee regatta course. Here's an overview of the key facts and what to expect.
What is the World Rowing Masters Regatta?
The World Rowing Masters Regatta is the most participant-heavy rowing event in the world, held annually. After previous editions in Tshwane, South Africa, and Libourne, France, Brandenburg an der Havel is the host this year. The event coincides with a special milestone—the 50th anniversary of the regatta. Thousands of rowers from across the globe are set to compete, making it a monumental celebration of rowing.
Where does the regatta take place?
The races will be held on the renowned Beetzsee regatta course, a natural venue that has hosted numerous national and international events since its opening in 1969. Modernized over the years, the course provides excellent facilities for top-level competition and is a symbol of rowing tradition in Brandenburg.
Who are the participants?
According to organizers, 3,644 athletes from 726 clubs and 51 nations have registered. Of the participants, 38% are women, with an average age of 53 years, while the men average 58 years. Notably, 117 “Octos,” or rowers aged over 80, will compete, with the oldest female rower at 89 years old and the oldest male rower at 98.
Among the participants is former professional rower and Olympian Ronja Fini Sturm, who will race in her hometown after representing Germany at the 2016 Rio Olympics. Although retired from elite competition, Sturm is eager to join the Masters event on the waters of Beetzsee.
What are the competitions?
The packed schedule includes 680 races across five days, with events starting every three minutes. Competitions are divided into men’s, women’s, and mixed categories, spanning seven boat classes and 14 age categories. A total of 2,430 medals are up for grabs.
The regatta also includes para-rowing events, particularly in the PR3 double sculls category, which was introduced at last year’s regatta in Tshwane. Ulrike Hartmann, the race director, emphasized the importance of para-rowing, noting Beetzsee’s proven capability to host successful para-rowing events at the national level.
What should spectators know?
Rowing fans can watch the races free of charge from the partially covered grandstand, as the shoreline of Beetzsee is lined with natural reed beds, limiting accessible viewing areas. A massive 64-square-meter video screen opposite the grandstand will help viewers follow the action-packed schedule.
What is the event schedule?
The regatta site opens for official training on Monday and Tuesday, September 9th and 10th. The competition kicks off on Wednesday with races from 12 PM to 6 PM, followed by the official opening ceremony at 7 PM. On the following days, races will begin at 8:30 AM and continue until 7 PM. On the final day, Sunday, races will conclude at 2 PM.
A special ceremony to honor rowers over 80 years of age and the awards for the club competition will take place on Saturday after the last race. The closing ceremony will also include the flag handover to the organizing committee for the 2025 World Rowing Masters Regatta in Banyoles, Spain.
Conclusion
With thousands of participants, a rich history, and a world-class venue, the 2024 World Rowing Masters Regatta in Brandenburg promises to be an unforgettable event. It not only celebrates the sport but also fosters a sense of community and competition among rowers of all ages and abilities.