GB Beach Sprint programme looking for J16s
The GB Beach Sprint programme is looking to identify J16 rowers, to try this exciting new Olympic format this summer
Credit: Anthony Benoit
No previous Coastal or Beach Sprint experience is required. Young rowers can become part of a development programme with the chance to race later in 2025 at Coupe de la Jeunesse Beach Sprints. The ultimate aim will be to qualify boats and represent Great Britain for the first time ever in the Beach Sprint format at the 2026 Youth Olympic Games in Dakar.
The first early identification opportunity is Sunday June 29th in Nottingham. Open to any rowers year 11 or younger, it will take place immediately after the GB France trial, meaning athletes involved in GB France can also take part. This early identification will involve racing in coastal boats over distances between 250-500m to identify individuals who may be suited to the shorter sprint format.
Tom Pattichis, GB Rowing Head Coach for Beach Sprints said: “With over a year and half until the Youth Olympic Games, we’ve identified an exciting opportunity in Nottingham, for young rowers currently involved in any rowing format, whether that be based on the river or coast, to get involved in Beach Sprints. Successful athletes could be selected to race at the 2025 Coupe event and potentially develop as a young Olympian.”
After the identification event in Nottingham, GB Rowing will invite a group of athletes to take part in a training camp in Bournemouth from 27-29 August, which will lead into competing at the British Beach Sprint Championships from 30-31 August. Following this, a selection event for the 2025 Coupe de la Jeunesse Beach Sprints will take place on Monday 1 September.
The 2025 Coupe de la Jeunesse Beach Sprints is competed in La Linea, Spain from 31 October to 2 November. Tom Pattichis added: “Our intention is to select a team of J16 rowers to race at the Coupe, as a practice event in preparation for potential qualification and selection for the 2026 Dakar Youth Olympic Games.”
Athletes or parents wishing to find out more information can register interest below!
