Masters go en masse to Munich

Most crews came from around Europe, but clubs from Australia and the United States were also represented. Aged from 27 to 88 years old, masters rowers had the option to row in any boat class from singles to eights, over a distance of 1,000m. Many of them raced more than once and by the end of the three day regatta the number of seat entries exceeded 5,000.

To get through the programme, races began every four minutes and went from 8am until 8pm for the first two days. Then, on the final day 300 mixed gender boats and composite crews raced. This was kept flowing by the 180 volunteers throughout the course.

The weather was warm throughout, with clear skies on the first and second days of the regatta. Despite a thunderstorm after racing on day two, the final day of racing was pleasant without rain. Bavarian music, food and beer created a lively atmosphere as well as numerous exhibits including sports equipment and massage services.

As well as crews from around Europe there were entries from three other continents including a large group from the United States. The biggest number of entries was from German clubs and it included the oldest participant, 88-year-old Walter Wagner from Frankfurt who raced both singles and doubles.

The sponsor of the regatta was Italian boatbuilder, Filippi. They rented out equipment to participants who were unable to bring their own boat. 

Since 1998, the regatta has been organised every four years at the Olympic Regatta Course in Munich-Oberschleissheim, Germany, in the year that the World Rowing Masters Regatta is run outside of Europe. 

The World Rowing Masters Regatta will be held in Ballarat, Australia, from 9 to 12 October 2014. Registration for the event can be submitted through the organising committee website at http://www.wrmr2014.com/ .