From August 18th to 25th, the picturesque city of St. Catharines, ON, once again transformed into the epicenter of international rowing excellence. For the third time in history, St. Catharines proudly hosted the World Rowing Championships on the Royal Canadian Henley Rowing Course. However, this time in the form of Mega Worlds – the World Rowing Senior, U23, and U19 World Championships. The World Championship regatta, first hosted by the city in 1970 and then again in 1999, was a wonderful event that showcased rowing talent, community spirit, and the city of St. Catharines.

The Royal Canadian Henley Rowing Course, a landmark in the St. Catharines community, was the perfect backdrop for this prestigious event. The championship attracted elite rowers from around the globe, offering them a stage to display their skills and compete against other world-class athletes. With a week-long schedule packed with thrilling races, the event was nothing short of an organizational feat. However, it was more than just a sporting event; it was a celebration of community and culture. Spectators and participants enjoyed various festivities, including a fan festival, live music, a variety of local vendors, and other entertainment options that added to the excitement and atmosphere.

Thanks to the Organizing Committee

The success of this grand event would not have been possible without the tireless efforts of the dedicated organizing committee. Our profound gratitude extends to:

• Tim Rigby – Honorary President
• Bill Schenck – Chair
• Wendy Wiebe – Vice Chair
• Sabrina Maselli – City of St. Catharines Representative
• Mat Milne – Revenue Management | Sport Niagara
• Dan Kennedy – Procurement & Administration | Sport Niagara
• Vittoria Wikston – Marketing, Communications & Events | Sport Niagara
• Bruce Henning – Treasurer
• Ken Campbell – Regatta Director
• Walter Sendzik – Government Relations
• Tom Blacquiere – Minor Officials
• Heather McFarlane – Athlete/Team Accommodation | Brock University
• Bruce MacDonald – Secretary/Legal
• Brian Thorne – Volunteers
• Ken Sandham – Transport
• Gerry McIlhone – Transport
• Malcolm Walker – Course
• Serge Paquin – IT Services
• George Darte – Equipment Manager
• Swede Burak – Shell House and Grandstand Manager
• Hillary Blackwood and Tom Mazzone – Medical
• Michelle Kerr – Accommodations
• Peter Somerwril – Logistics
• Sandy Myers – Water Safety
• Ross Yeo – Equipment Manager

Their combined efforts exemplify the spirit of teamwork and dedication that made the delivery of Mega Worlds a success. We would also like to acknowledge all the efforts of the hundreds of volunteers that made this event run smoothly.

Acknowledging Our Funding Partners

The event’s success was also made possible through the generous support of our funding partners. We extend our sincere thanks to the:

• Government of Canada
• Government of Ontario
• Niagara Region
• City of St. Catharines

Their support was crucial in bringing this world-class event to life. For a comprehensive list of all our partners, please visit https://stcrowing2024.com/en/sponsorship/

A Community Triumph

The World Rowing Championships in St. Catharines were more than just a series of races—they were a celebration of rowing, a testament to the city’s commitment to sport, and a demonstration of what can be achieved through collective effort. We thank the athletes, coaches, family members, friends, and the global rowing community for their enthusiastic participation and support.

St. Catharines once again proved its prowess as a host city, providing a memorable experience for all involved and solidifying its place on the global rowing map. As the final boats crossed the finish line and the last cheers faded, the city reflected on a job well done and looked forward to the next opportunity to welcome the world once more.