The Opening Ceremony of the European Universities Rowing Championship was held on 18 September on the picturesque Mill Island in Bydgoszcz, Poland.

The ceremony officially kicked off an exciting and competitive event, uniting top university rowers from across Europe. It celebrated sport, teamwork, and international camaraderie, creating a lively and welcoming atmosphere for athletes, coaches, officials, and spectators alike.

The event welcomed distinguished guests, including the Mayor of Bydgoszcz, Rafal Bruski; the Rector of Kazimierz Wielki University, Professor Bernard Mendlik; and European Rowing Board Member, Algirdas Raslanas.

On behalf of the Organising Committee, participants were warmly welcomed by Katarzyna Domanska, President of the University Sports Association at Kazimierz Wielki University (KU AZS UKW Bydgoszcz).

Representing EUSA, SCAC Chair, Filipe Santos, extended his greetings to all participants, wishing the athletes success as they prepare to showcase their skills and talents. He also expressed gratitude to the Organising Committee for their dedication and hard work.

The Championship is organised by the University Sports Association of Kazimierz Wielki University in Bydgoszcz, in cooperation with Kazimierz Wielki University, the City of Bydgoszcz, the Marshal’s Office of the Kuyavian-Pomeranian Voivodeship, the Ministry of Sport and Tourism, the Polish Rowing Federation, and with the support of Bydgoszcz Sports Centre, Volvo Car Bydgoszcz, Carrefour, and many other partners and sponsors. Athlete gifts were kindly provided by Fale Loki Koki and Ziaja.

Both the city and the university have a proud tradition of hosting international university sporting events, including the European Universities Rowing Championship 2023, the 2022 FISU World University Canoe Sprint Championship, the online FISU World University Mind Sports Championship, the 2019 European Universities Handball Championship, and the 6th World University Shooting Sport Championship. This track record reflects their professionalism and commitment to excellence, further strengthened by the strong support of the local municipality, civic institutions, and sports organisations.

EUSA is represented by SCAC Chair, Felipe Santos, Director of Sports Events, Liam Smith, Sports Administrator, Aleksandra Andreeva, and Julija Furcic, Results Management Support. 

The 2025 Championship will be held from 19–21 September at the Brdyujscie Regatta Course, welcoming 512 athletes representing 77 universities from 20 countries. The competition promises thrilling races while fostering the values of fair play, friendship, and cultural exchange at the highest level of university sport.

The Opening Ceremony also featured an energetic performance by KODA, whose rock and pop music brought to life the cultural vibrancy of the host city.

In line with EUSA’s commitment to sustainability, the organisers introduced several eco-friendly initiatives, including digital information systems and reusable water stations across the venues.

Before the Opening Ceremony, the General Technical Meeting was held, providing a platform to share information, rules, schedules, and other key technical details.

Beyond the competition, the organisers hope the Championship will leave a lasting legacy for university sport in the region, inspiring future generations of athletes and setting a benchmark for hosting international events.

For more information, please visit: rowing2025.eusa.eu