USRowing Youth National Championship Returns to Nathan Benderson Park
Annual regatta is expected to draw over 11,000 attendees at Nathan Benderson Park, with additional USRowing-hosted competitions returning to Sarasota County the same week
Annual regatta is expected to draw over 11,000 attendees at Nathan Benderson Park, with additional USRowing-hosted competitions returning to Sarasota County the same week
The highly anticipated USRowing Youth National Championships will return to Nathan Benderson Park from June 11–14, marking the event’s ninth year in Sarasota County. Supported by Visit Sarasota County, the internationally-renowned regatta will attract over 4,000 athletes and 1,000 coaches, while drawing more than 6,000 spectators to the region over four days.
"The 2026 USRowing Youth National Championships will bring more than 11,000 athletes, coaches, families, and rowing supporters to Sarasota County for one of the premier youth sporting events in the country,” said Sarah McAuliffe, Chief Program Coordinator for USRowing. “Our priority is delivering safe, fair racing while creating an unforgettable experience both on and off the water. Spectators can expect world-class competition, incredible energy, and a vibrant event atmosphere. We are grateful to Visit Sarasota County and Nathan Benderson Park for their continued partnership and shared commitment to making this event better every year."
The USRowing Youth National Championships have become one of the most significant youth sporting events in the country, earning SportsTravel’s Best Amateur Sports Event in 2023, as well as the Florida Sports Foundation’s 2024 Best Event of the Year (Mid-Sized Market). For more than 30 years, the event has provided opportunities for crews from across the nation to qualify, come together and crown national champions. Held at Nathan Benderson Park, the regatta will feature more than 4,000 rowers competing in up to 43 events for medals.
"We are absolutely thrilled to welcome the USRowing Youth National Championships back to Nathan Benderson Park as our premier annual event. Hosting this caliber of championship racing isn't just a testament to our world-class venue; it’s a massive win for the entire Sarasota-Bradenton community,” said Bruce Patneaude, Chief Operating Officer at Nathan Benderson Park. “Every year, thousands of talented young athletes, coaches, and families inject incredible energy into our local economy by filling our hotels, dining in our restaurants, and experiencing the very best of our region. We take immense pride in providing these athletes with a championship-level stage to chase their dreams, while simultaneously showcasing our community as a top-tier destination for sports tourism."
Following Youth Nationals, USRowing will host its second annual USRowing Youth Beach Sprint National Championships at South Lido Key Beach on June 16 and 17 as part of its efforts to expand athlete competition and participation for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. Its U19 Trials, which provide national opportunities for athlete development and selection for the U19 National Team, will also take place during the same period at Nathan Benderson Park.
“Visit Sarasota County is proud to welcome USRowing back to Sarasota County for the ninth time as the Youth National Championships celebrates its 31st edition,” said Pete Harvey, Director of Sports for Visit Sarasota County. “Following a record-setting 30th anniversary event in 2025, we’re excited to build on that success and welcome more than 11,000 athletes, coaches, families, and fans to our community. Events like this showcase Nathan Benderson Park, highlight Sarasota County’s ability to host premier national championships, and create lasting experiences for both returning visitors and first-time guests.”
The community is encouraged to attend USRowing’s regatta, which is one of the largest annual sporting events in Sarasota County. For tickets and more information, visit https://nathanbendersonpark.org/event/usrowing-2026-youth-national-championships/.
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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.
About the Nathan Benderson Park Conservancy (NBPC):
The Nathan Benderson Park Conservancy is a not-for-profit 501(c)3 business created to manage Nathan Benderson Park, a community/public asset and world-class, multi-use sports venue. Our mission is to improve the quality of life for our community and be an economic generator for our region. The Conservancy’s primary purpose is to develop and promote the park as a world-class event center, team training site and Sarasota County Park, while providing outreach programs through recreation, safety training, education and volunteering as a service to our community. See more at www.nathanbendersonpark.org.
About Visit Sarasota County
Visit Sarasota County is the official tourism marketing entity and primary provider of visitor information for Sarasota County where tourism is the top industry. Through programs and partnerships, Visit Sarasota County makes Sarasota County a better place by promoting our community on the world stage. These efforts bring together over 500 partners to keep visitors coming, local businesses open and residents employed all year. Visit Sarasota County is accredited by the Destination Marketing Accreditation Program, a program of the Destination Management Association International (DMAI). To learn more, visit www.visitsarasota.com.
Media Contact
Pre-Event Interviews
Visit Sarasota County
Elizabeth Knight
941-468-1554
Onsite Interviews
Nathan Benderson Park
Marnie Buchsbaum
305-890-6626