In the lead-up to the 2025 Asian Rowing Beach Sprint Finals, World Rowing—alongside Olympic Solidarity (OS), the Asian Rowing Federation (ARF), the Chinese Rowing Federation (CRA), and the Organising Committee of the 2025 ARBSF supported by Swift Racing—hosted a dynamic Youth Athlete Development (YAD) Training Camp from 06–10 September in China. Designed to empower young rowers and strengthen regional capacity, the camp brought together 33 athletes and coaches from 8 countries (Hong Kong- Indonesia- Iraq- Kingdom of Saudia Arabia- Kuwait- Malaysia- Singapore- Thailand) for five days of high-energy training, collaboration, and cultural exchange.
This initiative is part of World Rowing’s ongoing commitment to regional development, offering continent-focused opportunities that support Member Federations in preparing for key continental and global events. The YAD camp focused on enhancing athlete performance, building coaching expertise, and creating a safe, inclusive space for learning and growth.
Under the guidance of World Rowing’s development coaching team consisting of Chris Perry, the Development Lead Coaching Expert for Asia; Sam Wong, World Rowing Coach Educator, and Wimonrad Amm, World Rowing Coach Educator Trainee, participants engaged in intensive beach sprint training, technical workshops, and team-building activities. With the 2025 Asian Rowing Beach Sprint Finals kicking off immediately after the camp (11–14 September), athletes in the U19 category were not only sharpening their skills—they were gearing up to compete. Mrs. Ho Kim Fay, World Rowing Continental Representative for Asia ensured to attend the camp and lend her coaching support to the participating nations.
But the camp was not just about performance. It was about people. Athletes from across Asia trained side by side, sharing stories, strategies, and support. Teams cheered each other on, creating a vibrant atmosphere of mutual respect and encouragement. Coaches fostered a learning environment where questions were welcomed and ideas exchanged freely. The training conditions were ideal, offering both challenge and comfort in equal measure.
The YAD camp exemplifies how sport can be a powerful tool for connection and development. Beyond the physical training, participants gained: Confidence in their technique and race strategy; Exposure to international coaching styles and feedback; A deeper understanding of teamwork across cultures, and Friendships that extend beyond the finish line.
Olympic Solidarity played a key role in enabling participation through their valuable funding and support to youth athlete development. The value in kind boats and training equipment, access to facilities, and logistical support provided by Swift Racing was invaluable and contributed to the smooth running of the event.
Thanks also go to ARF, the CRA and the local government for supporting and promoting this World Rowing Training Camp.
As the beach sprint finals unfold, the impact of the YAD camp will be felt not just in race results, but in the energy, resilience, and friendship shown by these young athletes. World Rowing’s investment in youth development continues to shape the future of the sport—one stroke, one story, one shared experience at a time.
Whether you are new to rowing or already chasing waves, this camp proves that when young people come together with purpose and passion, the possibilities are endless.
