Plovdiv Youth Rowing World Championships draws 1,000 international spectators

More than 1,000 fans from five continents gathered at the Rowing Canal in Plovdiv, Bulgaria, to watch the World Rowing Under‑19 Championships. Spectators waved national flags, rang bells and blew vuvuzelas, creating a lively atmosphere.

A Swiss father, Philipp, said his son stepped in as a reserve after another competitor fell ill and praised the fast water, comparing it to Lake Sarnen in Switzerland. He added that the Swiss crowd used traditional cow‑bells to be heard from the stands. Australian supporters, including Samer Phillips and her family, travelled over 20 hours from Melbourne and Brisbane, cheering the women’s quadruple scull and displaying kangaroo‑themed banners.

The event highlighted the global appeal of junior rowing, with families and friends rallying behind young athletes from around the world.