Wondering how world-class athletes can compete during a pandemic? For those who row crew, it’s all virtual. Watch the championships now.
The World Rowing Virtual Indoor Championships will stream live online this year. The championships run today through Feb. 27.
For the first time ever, competitors will have the opportunity to race for a World Championship title in the same race, at the same time, from anywhere in the world. More than 1,000 athletes from over 50 countries are registered to compete in the finals.
The world championship will broadcast in European time, but you can watch and stream for free on GearJunkie. Tune in to the excitement here. We’ll update each day’s livestream below.
How a ‘Virtual’ World Rowing Championship Works
The sport of indoor rowing is done on stationary rowing equipment. Athletes are participating from their home countries, in their homes, backyards, or home gyms.
Note: All qualified athletes are using a Concept2 static rowing ergometer with an updated PM3, PM4, or PM5 monitor to ensure an accurate comparison.
Competitors are grouped into eligibility categories (by age, rowing and para-rowing, and lightweight rankings). Each athlete will then compete against others in their category in different race events, for example, a 500m or 2,000m. In order to qualify for the World Championship finals, athletes had to submit documentation of nationality and also qualify in either open or continental pathways by Feb. 7.
Day 1 began today at 12 p.m. Central European Time (6 a.m. EST):
Day 2 began today at 6 a.m. EST:
