Coastal racing fit for a prince in Monaco

Heading some exciting racing was the men’s masters quadruple sculls from Westminister (GBR) being followed closely by Barcelona (ESP) and Berlin (GER) over Saturday’s 6km course. Local interest was strong for the men’s junior quad from Monaco who were beaten by Sete (FRA) by just one boatlength in the 6km event. The men’s senior quad saw a full-course close battle between Ukraine, Monaco and Avignon (FRA) in the 6km event. Ukraine won at the line.

The Challenge Prince Albert II is in its eleventh year and this year 204 boats participated with rowers from 14 countries. This represents a steady growth in the regatta with 150 rowers competing in 2005 and now 446 rowers on the first day of the two day regatta and 288 on the second. 

 “This year we broke the record for the total number of athletes on Saturday,” said organiser Gilbert Vivaldi. “Each year the regatta itself is of better and better quality as is the rower’s performance.”

Vivaldi noted that the establishment and growth of the World Rowing Coastal Championships has seen a flow-on effect, adding value to coastal rowing. “Now many Olympic rowers are starting to discover coastal rowing.”

The Challenge Prince Albert II has a reputation for being difficult due to waves and wind, but that is a feature embraced by many coastal rowers. And the mild winter climate is a definite attraction for the competitors. Monaco also hosts a long distance coastal race in October/November with rowers going from San Remo, Italy to Monaco – a distance of about 32km.

And in fine Monaco tradition, the Challenge Prince Albert II also holds a soiree for the participants.

For full results, click here.