From November 20–23, Canadian crews proudly represented the nation at the 2025 Commonwealth Rowing Association Beach Sprint Championships in Barbados.

After a successful week of racing, Team Canada delivered a series of standout performances across the U19 and U21 categories, showcasing the depth of emerging talent in the national program.

• GOLD – U19CM1x – Oliver Brennan (ON) 
• GOLD – U19CMix2x – Autumn Prior (ON) and Oliver Brennan
• SILVER – U19CW1x – Autumnn Prior
• SILVER – U21W1x – Grace Comes (NS) 
• BRONZE U21Mix2x – Dennis Ovdiyenko (ON) and Grace Comes

The Beach Sprint format, a fast-paced, spectator-friendly version of coastal rowing, continues to grow in popularity worldwide. Canada’s strong showing in Barbados highlights the country’s commitment to developing athletes in this exciting discipline ahead of future international competitions and the 2028 Olympics.

Canadian athlete Aubrey Oldham (ON) was at the first-ever World Rowing beach sprint event and has attended every World Rowing beach sprint championship ever held. He also raced at the last Commonwealth beach sprint event, and shared his thoughts on the experience this year, saying:

“Barbados was an excellent location for this event. The level of competition was outstanding, with world-class athletes from across the Commonwealth showcasing the strength and excitement of coastal rowing. Racing against such talented competitors from around the world was both challenging and inspiring. Although Lucy and I finished just shy of the podium, I’m extremely proud of how we raced and of the remarkable success our Canadian team achieved.”

Canadian coach, Katie Bahain Steenman, built on Aubrey’s sentiment, saying, “Even with the challenges of a busy public beach, the Organizing Committee, including many Canadians, did an excellent job making the event a success. For our Canadian athletes, the currents were a real test, especially on the return leg, and highlighted the need for more training in varied conditions. We’re heading home with U21 and U19 medals and a clearer sense of what’s needed moving forward.”

Canada finished the competition in second place for the overall number of medals won per country, just behind Australia.

“One of the greatest highlights of beach spirit rowing for me continues to be being part of a team that is so supportive, close-knit, and committed to lifting each other up,” shared Aubrey. “That sense of unity makes the entire experience unforgettable, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to represent Canada alongside such incredible teammates.

Looking ahead to the 2028 Olympic Games, RCA is eager to grow the discipline and create more racing opportunities for up-and-coming athletes across Canada.

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RESULTS

FULL TEAM ROSTER

Photography is the property of Commonwealth Rowing and Swift Racing Boats.