The 2026 NCAA Division I Women’s Rowing Championships at Lake Lanier, Georgia, once again showcased the strength of Irish rowing talent competing at the highest level of collegiate sport in the United States.

A number of Irish athletes played key roles for some of the leading rowing programmes in the NCAA, representing both their universities and Ireland with distinction on one of the biggest stages in world university sport.

Leading the way was Cork rower Holly Davis, who helped the University of Texas Longhorns secure the NCAA Division I Women’s Rowing National Championship. Texas topped the team standings with 130 points to claim the national title following three days of racing at Lake Lanier.

Holly’s contribution to Texas’ national title represents a significant achievement for Irish rowing and highlights the growing impact Irish athletes are having within the NCAA system. Competing as part of a national championship-winning programme is a remarkable accomplishment and reflects the strength of Irish talent on the international stage.

Irish athletes were also represented throughout the championship by several other leading programmes, including Yale University and the University of Virginia, both of whom competed strongly at the national championships.

Among the Irish athletes competing across the weekend were:

Holly Davis – University of Texas
Patti Mullin – Yale University
Anna Keating – Yale University
Ayla O’Neill – University of Virginia

The continued presence of Irish rowers within leading NCAA programmes highlights the growing impact Irish athletes are making internationally. Competing in high-performance environments against many of the world’s best young rowers provides invaluable experience and contributes significantly to the development of future Irish international crews.

The performances delivered by these athletes throughout the NCAA season and at the National Championships are a testament to the continued strength of Irish rowing talent on the international stage.

Congratulations to Holly, Patti, Anna, Ayla, and all Irish athletes who represented their universities and Ireland so impressively throughout the 2026 NCAA Championships.

Catch all the action here: https://www.ncaa.com/sports/rowing/d1