Preparations are officially underway for two of the biggest domestic events on the rowing calendar, with planning now in motion for both the 2026 1K Classic and the Irish Rowing Championships.

The first planning meeting of the year took place face-to-face on March 1st, bringing together representatives from clubs and Rowing Ireland to begin detailed coordination and operational planning.

The 2026 1K Classic will take place on 27–28 June at Lough Rynn, Co. Leitrim.

The Irish Rowing Championships are scheduled for 10–12 July 2026 at the National Rowing Centre, Ireland’s premier rowing venue, which will once again welcome clubs from across the country for three days of racing.

Early discussions focused on logistics, volunteer structures, race management, safety planning and overall event delivery to ensure both regattas are delivered to the highest possible standard.

In attendance at the meeting were:

Back row (L–R):
Robert Canavan (Galway Rowing Club), Pat Kiely (Rowing Ireland), Michelle McDonagh (Shannon Rowing Club), Donal Cronin (Cork Boat Club), Brian Richardson (St Michael’s Rowing Club), Kyle Hanck (Commercial Rowing Club)

Front row (L–R):
Andrew Tubman (Belfast Rowing Club), Kayla McCann (St Michael’s Rowing Club), Ella Clarke (Sligo Rowing Club), Beth Cotter (Lee Valley Rowing Club)

Apologies were received from Tadgh Brannagan (Rowing Ireland) and Emer Garvey (Galway Rowing Club).

These early planning sessions are an important step in ensuring a seamless experience for athletes, coaches, clubs, volunteers and supporters from across the country.

Volunteers Required
Both the 1K Classic and the Irish Rowing Championships rely heavily on volunteers to operate successfully. A wide range of roles will be required across race operations, athlete services and event support.

Anyone available to give their time is encouraged to contact the Championships Volunteer Management team at: champs-vm@rowingireland.ie

Volunteers are central to the successful delivery of these national events and to the continued strength of rowing in Ireland.