Rowing Ireland is inviting affiliated clubs to join this year’s European Week of Sport by hosting an inclusive community event between 23 and 30 September 2026.

European Week of Sport is an annual initiative encouraging people across Ireland and Europe to become more active. The 2026 #BeActive campaign welcomes people of every age, background, ability and fitness level to find a way of being active that works for them.

This is an opportunity for rowing clubs to open their doors, welcome new participants and showcase the many ways people can enjoy rowing.

What could clubs deliver?

Events could include:

  • Beginner rowing taster sessions
  • Club open days
  • Indoor rowing challenges
  • Recreational or coastal rowing sessions
  • Women’s introduction-to-rowing events
  • Family or community activity days
  • Inclusive sessions for people with disabilities
  • Activities delivered with a school or community partner

Clubs are encouraged to design accessible, enjoyable events that are suitable for beginners and reach people who may not normally see rowing as an activity for them.

Small event-support budget

Rowing Ireland is offering approved clubs a small support budget of up to €100 to help deliver their event.

To qualify, events must aim to achieve at least 50% female participation and demonstrate how the club will actively recruit and welcome women and girls.

Funding may support reasonable delivery costs such as coaching, equipment or venue hire, safety cover, accessibility supports, local promotion and other essential event expenses. Clubs will be required to submit participation figures, a short event report and evidence of eligible expenditure.

Priority may be given to proposals that:

  • Provide a welcoming first experience of rowing
  • Engage women and girls who are not currently club members
  • Demonstrate the potential to attract at least 50% female participation
  • Reach inactive or underrepresented participants
  • Offer an inclusive and accessible activity
  • Involve local schools or community organisations
  • Provide a clear follow-on opportunity

Get involved

Could your club help more people discover rowing during European Week of Sport?

Complete the European Week of Sport Club Expression of Interest Form by 23rd of September 2026.

European Week of Sport – Club Event Application

Please provide your club name, main contact person, email address and phone number.
Briefly describe the European Week of Sport event you plan to deliver, including the proposed date, location and activities.
Who is the event aimed at, how many participants do you expect, and how will you ensure that at least 50% of participants are women or girls?
How will the event encourage new or returning participants to become involved in rowing, and what opportunities will you offer them after the event?

For questions, contact womeninsport@rowingireland.ie

Let’s open our clubs, welcome new participants and help our communities #BeActive this September.