Plovdiv, Bulgaria | 29 May – 1 June 2025
The World Rowing Development Programme made a significant impact at the 2025 European Rowing Championships held in Plovdiv, Bulgaria, by supporting five athletes and three coaches from three European development nations: Georgia, Moldova, and Armenia. The initiative was made possible through close cooperation with the local Organising Committee, which provided comprehensive support including full-board accommodation, local transportation, equipment, and logistical and technical assistance.
A major highlight of the programme was Georgia’s Lightweight Men’s Pair, featuring Davit Lashkareishvili (bow seat) and Giorgi Kanteladze (stroke seat). The Georgian pair achieved a historic result by placing second in the final, securing Georgia’s first international medal in rowing. Their enthusiasm and commitment throughout the championship were widely noted, and their podium finish marks a proud milestone for Georgian Rowing.
Armenia was represented by two young athletes—Armen Halajyan(19) and Armen Kosyan (16)—who competed in the Lightweight Men’s Pair event. The teenage duo demonstrated determination and skill as they advanced through the preliminary rounds to place fourth in the final, just behind Moldova and Georgia. Their participation provided invaluable experience at the senior international level, supported by technical guidance from World Rowing Head Coach Gianni Postiglione.
Moldova’s representative, Ivan Corsunov, competed in the Men’s Single Sculls and placed fifth in the B Final. The talented sculler showed significant promise, and his participation at this level marks an important step forward in his development. The event experience will serve as a foundation for his continued training and future international competition.
Additional technical support at the event was provided by Stanislava Slavova, a former Bulgarian rower and experienced international rowing coach, whose expertise contributed to the athletes’ learning and performance during the competition.
This initiative reflects World Rowing’s commitment to developing the sport across all nations and ensuring that emerging rowing communities have opportunities to compete, learn, and grow on the international stage. The success and experiences of the athletes and coaches in Plovdiv underscore the positive impact of targeted support in shaping the future of Rowing worldwide.