Orewa Beach is set for a thrilling weekend as it hosts the Rowing New Zealand Beach Sprint Championships on Saturday, 5 April and Sunday, 6 April.

Top Elite and U19 athletes will race for a coveted place on the national squad bound for the World Rowing Beach Sprint Championships in Rio this October.

The fast-paced knockout format promises excitement for spectators, with racing starting at 8:30am Saturday and wrapping up around midday Sunday.

This year’s expanded two-day schedule, based at Orewa Surf Lifesaving Club, gives competitors more opportunities to prove themselves in this growing sport.

Beach sprint rowing is unique—athletes sprint from the sand to their boats, tackle a tight slalom course, and finish with a run back to the beach. It’s high-speed, high-energy, and made for fans.

Two Olympic Gold Medallists, Michael Brake and Emma Twigg, will also be in attendance, adding even more buzz to the weekend.

Organiser David Vallance says Orewa is the perfect host: “We’ve seen fantastic engagement from the local community. Orewa is the ideal location—not just for this event, but for the future of beach sprint rowing.”

Photos: @rowing.pictureshow

With the stunning coastline, strong surf club support, and a Coast community known for its love of water sports, this championship could be a game-changer.

Whether you're a rowing fan or just keen for some weekend action by the sea, this is one to catch.

Photo: @rowing.pictureshow

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