USRowing Youth National Championships Returns to Nathan Benderson Park

USRowing

Photo Credit: USRowing

 

The highly anticipated USRowing Youth National Championships, presented by Broadridge, are set to return to Nathan Benderson Park from June 6 to June 9, 2024. This prestigious event, organized by USRowing and supported by Visit Sarasota County, promises to be the largest in its history, with over 10,000 athletes, coaches, and spectators in attendance. 

As the culmination of a series of 12 qualifying events held coast-to-coast throughout the year, the Youth National Championships will showcase the nation's top young rowers, highlighting their exceptional talent, determination, and excellence on the water. With four days of highstakes competition, the event promises exciting races and fierce rivalries. 

"Coming back to Sarasota County for the seventh year feels like a homecoming for the USRowing Youth National Championships” said Sarah McAuliffe, Director of Competition. “It’s more than just a competition; it is a festival and celebration of the best young rowers in the nation. Nathan Benderson Park provides the perfect setting, with its top-notch facilities and stunning views and we can't wait to see thousands of incredible athletes in action."

Beyond the intense action on the water, attendees can look forward to a festival-like atmosphere on land, with daily activities catering to all ages and interests. The rowing festivities kick off on Thursday, June 6, with time-trial racing all day, followed by a rowing workout for parents, supporters, and the Sarasota community at Row House. Friday, June 7 will feature finals and semifinals racing, a Coastal Rowing demonstration at lunch, and closes with the Toast in the Tower social. The excitement continues for spectators on Saturday, June 8, with additional finals racing all day, a second Coastal Rowing demonstration, and the highly anticipated Cornhole Tournament at The Green at University Town Center (UTC). Starting at 5:00 p.m. and hosted by Haolenaut Sports, the tournament promises an evening of music, food and beverage vendors, and the opportunity to compete for the coveted title of Cornhole Champions alongside members of your crew (note that participants will be required to have purchased a Youth Nationals Championship ticket to compete).

Throughout the weekend at Nathan Benderson Park, attendees can enjoy music from a live DJ, explore a variety of vendors on-site, offering a range of products and services - from specialty food vendors, rowing apparel and gear, souvenirs, and local businesses. Even your pet is welcome at the regatta - and encouraged to enter our Best in Row photo competition.

Attendance is free for children ages five and under, and all other tickets can be purchased online at ShowPass.com; a four-day pass to attend is $89 (plus fees), and a new $39 (plus fees) ticket option is available for fans looking to attend on Friday, June 7 from 12 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.). Races will be livestreamed for free on Overnght.com and spectators are encouraged to follow @USRowing on Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter) for event updates and highlights.

For more information, a full agenda of daily activities, and to purchase tickets, please visit the link HERE.

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About USRowing 

USRowing is the national governing body for the sport of rowing in the United States, dedicated to promoting and developing rowing at all levels from juniors to elite competition. With a membership base of 1,300 rowing clubs, and 75,000+ individuals, USRowing provides resources, education, and support to foster excellence and growth in the sport. 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.

USRowing would like to thank presenting sponsor Broadridge for its support, as well as the generous support of local and community partners.

About Visit Sarasota County

Visit Sarasota County (VSC) is the official tourism marketing entity and primary provider of visitor information for Sarasota County where tourism is the top industry. It is accredited by the Destination Marketing Accreditation Program, a program of the Destination Management Association International (DMAI). VSC meets the highest standards of professionalism, leadership, fiscal management, and ethical principles. Visit www.visitsarasota.com for more information.

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