World Rowing Under 19 Championships Officially Opened in Trakai

On the evening of August 5th, Trakai hosted the official opening ceremony of the World Rowing Under 19 Championships. More than 1,000 people – athletes, delegations from nearly 50 countries, volunteers, and organisers – took part in a festive parade that began at the regatta venue and made its way to the Trakai Peninsula Castle. This symbolic march marked the start of the championships, uniting the global rowing community with local residents and visitors from around the world.

Following the parade, the official opening ceremony took place in the historic castle, where participants were welcomed by the organisers, leaders of the Lithuanian Rowing Federation, and distinguished guests.

Leon Somov’s tribute to future Olympians through music

The highlight of the evening was the premiere of “Rowtronica” – a unique music piece created by renowned Lithuanian producer Leon Somov specifically for this championship. The electronic composition was crafted from authentic rowing sounds, recorded at the Trakai rowing base.

“It’s very important to start with an idea,” said Somov. “We met with Saulius Ritter and the rowing team earlier this summer. I really wanted to experience the location and capture the actual sounds of rowing – the oars hitting the water, the splash, the boat’s movements. I treated the boat like a percussion instrument and used these recorded sounds to create a track.”

From the first day of the championship, “Rowtronica” will be available on all major music platforms.

Organisers promise spectacular races

“We are thrilled to host this major event,” said Mindaugas Griškonis, President of the Lithuanian Rowing Federation. “The opening ceremony brought together a large number of athletes, parents, and supporters. It’s a significant celebration not only for Trakai but for all of Lithuania.”

Griškonis also highlighted the scale of the event: “This year, we welcome delegations from 47 countries, with over 600 young rowers. Large teams from New Zealand, the United Kingdom, Italy, and Germany are here. We’re proud to see such strong international participation in Lithuania.”

Fans invited to support future Olympians

Racing begins on August 6th and continues through August 10th on Lake Galvė. Over 600 athletes are preparing to compete, and organisers expect a record number of spectators.

Team Lithuania will be represented by 26 young athletes, each fighting for championship titles across various boat classes. For many, this world championship is the first major milestone in their sporting careers.

Preliminary heats will take place on August 6–7, followed by finals allocation. On August 8th, E, D, and C finals, Q finals, and some semifinals will be held. The most intense competition will unfold over the weekend: August 9th will see C and D finals and remaining semifinals, while August 10th will conclude with A and B finals, awards ceremonies, and the official closing ceremony.

Famous Lithuanians join the action on world-class rowing course

The championship offers more than just racing – the Fan Zone will feature activities, merchandise, and a chance to learn more about the sport of rowing.

One of the standout attractions will be the Celebrity Row, taking place on August 9th at 13:00 before the semifinals. Well-known Lithuanian personalities – Vaidas Baumila, Martynas Tyla, Leon Somov, Paulius Mikolaitis (Paul de Miko), Danas Sodaitis, and Rasa Linkaitė – will team up with professional rowers to compete in a 200-meter race, experiencing what it’s like to sit in a future Olympian’s seat.

“I’m glad I was coached by Mantas Juškevičius – he’ll be rowing with me in the actual championship. He corrected my mistakes, observed my moves, and I listened carefully. I was a bit nervous because if you tilt the oar slightly wrong, the boat can tip over. I’m not sure how we’ll do in the race, but the training was super fun – we laughed a lot,” shared Leon Somov after his first training.

The Celebrity Row will be broadcast live on LRT Plius on August 9th at 13:00.

📍 More info: www.rowingtrakai.com