USRowing Youth National Championships Mark 30th Anniversary, Return to Nathan Benderson Park June 12–15

The highly anticipated USRowing Youth National Championships will return to Nathan Benderson Park from June 12–15, marking the event’s 30th anniversary. Supported by Visit Sarasota County, the internationally-renowned regatta is expected to draw nearly 10,000 athletes, coaches, and spectators, showcasing the nation’s top youth rowers in four days of high-stakes competition.

“We are thrilled to return to Sarasota for the eighth year,” said Sarah McAuliffe, Director of Competition. “This event showcases not only the athletic excellence and dedication of our athletes, but also the vibrant spirit of the rowing community. We look forward to an unforgettable competition set against the backdrop of world-class facilities and a supportive crowd.”

As part of the Youth National Championships anniversary celebrations—and coinciding with the 20th anniversary of Savor Sarasota—USRowing will host new competitions in Sarasota County, including the inaugural Youth Beach Sprint National Championships at Lido Key Beach, a new rowing discipline that locals and visitors can witness ahead of its Olympic debut in Los Angeles in 2028.

At Nathan Benderson Park, attendees will enjoy watching elite youth rowing as over 200 teams from around the nation compete for national titles. The racing will be live-streamed on the Overnght Streaming Platform, including its awards ceremony for first, second, and third-place teams to wrap up the anniversary event on June 15.  

“Visit Sarasota County is proud to continue our longstanding partnership with USRowing as we celebrate two incredible milestones—the 30th anniversary of the Youth National Championships and the 20th anniversary of Savor Sarasota,” said Pete Harvey, Director of Sports for Visit Sarasota County. “These events highlight Sarasota’s vibrant community spirit, showcase Nathan Benderson Park, and bring together athletes and fans to experience the best of our region.”

The community is encouraged to attend this event, which is one of the largest sporting events in Sarasota County. High school-age athletes nationwide are currently in the midst of qualifying for the Youth National Championships through competing in one of six USRowing Regional Championships or one of the five qualifying regattas throughout the month of May.

Further information is available at https://usrowing.org/national-championships/youth-national-championships where you can purchase spectator tickets with VIP options by May 27.

About USRowing
USRowing is the national governing body for rowing in the United States, dedicated to promoting and developing rowing at all levels, from juniors to elite competition. With a membership base of 1,400 member organizations and 77,000+ individuals, USRowing provides theoretical and practical education programs that strengthen and grow rowing while helping members achieve their goals. The national governing body works closely with international rowing bodies to represent the United States at the highest levels of competition, including the World Rowing Championships, Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Media Contact 
Visit Sarasota County
Elizabeth Knight
[email protected]

Photos for Coverage – Credit USRowing
•    https://www.usrowing.photos/2024-Youth-National-Championships/Shot-List/n-QsLB7c/i-VNPLf2m/A
•    https://www.usrowing.photos/2024-Youth-National-Championships/Medals-/i-tXpZHJ9/A