Date change proposed for 2010 World Champs

The 2010 World Rowing Championships at Lake Karapiro, New Zealand, is looking to be later in the year. Originally set for September, the New Zealand organising committee has suggested that it should take place instead from 31 October to 7 November.

The original September date was decided to fit in with the Rowing World Cup series and the end of the Northern Hemisphere rowing season. But organisers have pointed out that September is still relatively cold in New Zealand, being the end of winter.

The World Rowing Championships were last held in New Zealand in 1978 and at that time November was chosen. This is the preferred month of the organisers and they state:

1. November is well into the southern spring, and temperatures are on average five degrees warmer than in September throughout the day;
2. There will be leaves on the trees and the course and surroundings, as well as New Zealand overall will have a more pleasant ambience;
3. The course embankment area and the boat park and team areas will be in better (drier) condition for spectators and athletes respectively;
4. For the same reason, car parking areas will be more proximate to the venue thus improving spectator logistics;
5. September is the climax for winter sports in New Zealand, and rugby in particular, which may compromise spectator support for the World Rowing Championships if they were held in September.

The FISA Council has not yet taken a position on this issue.

This change will be discussed with National Federations at the FISA Congress to be held in Linz, Austria on 25 July 2008.

The World Rowing team values feedback.