The Korean Rowing Association (KRA) held their first-ever National Beach Sprint Championships at the beautiful Surfy Beach in Yangyang, on the north-east coast, from 5th to 7th July 2024. Some 200 athletes from clubs all over the country took part in the event with men’s and women’s solos and doubles for both experienced rowers and masters/recreational rowers.
Racing conditions were generally excellent although there were some challenging waves on the first day of competition and some modifications to the race format for the recreational rowers were required. Considering that most of the participants came from classic rowing and had not competed on the sea before, there was some excellent racing with a number of exciting, close finishes at the buzzer. All of those taking part greatly enjoyed the challenge.
Prior to the competition, Chris Perry – Development Lead Expert for Asia – conducted a two-day seminar and education programme based on material in the World Rowing Coastal Race Module. Some 70 coaches, athletes and technical officials attended both locally and online.
Racing boats, course layout/equipment and race timing systems were provided by Swift International and their team of excellent support staff. Thanks should also go to all of the officials, staff and volunteers who made the event possible – including local surf lifeguards who kept everybody safe.
Finally thanks to the Korean Rowing Association under President Mr. Semun Oh and to the local government, sports authorities and sponsors. It is hoped that Korea will bid for future international events in this exciting discipline in the future.
