French coastal champs test inland waters

The decision to use Thonon to host this year’s event was in part due to the development of coastal rowing and the desire to demonstrate that coastal rowing boats can be used on a variety of bodies of water.

Starting from the town of Thonon, rowers raced over an 8km course which included 12 turns. Participant, Fanny Mossiere commented that the number of turns made the course “very interesting.” Mossiere also noted that spectators got to enjoy the finish as it was close to shore. “The fact that the boats returned to the harbour only a few meters from the shore was also very much appreciated, by the rowers and by the public.”

This year 502 competitors from France entered – an increase of over 50 participants compared to last year. The men’s double was the biggest field with 38 boats entered. The size of the field was partly boosted by the French Rowing Federation’s decision to make this regatta a qualification event for those who want to participate in the World Rowing Coastal Championships to be held in Helsingborg, Sweden in August, 2013.

One of the standout races was the men’s four where 2012 champions, Saint-Malo took on 2011 champions, Thonon. Thonon successfully won the title back using their home advantage.

The two overall winning clubs were Marseille with four medals and Thonon with six medals.

The regatta also included a Criterium course of 16km which was open to entries outside of France, held on the second day of competition. A record of 56 boats entered, by far the biggest field ever attracted to the criterium. As well as French crews a number of crews from Switzerland entered and Peter Berg of Sweden completed the course in a single.

Rowers enjoyed sunny, calm racing conditions with the water flat apart from the waves made by navigation boats that passed close to the course.

Results are available here.