(Sydney, NSW – April 1, 2025) – Here at Community Rowing Club, our motto has always been “Providing Opportunities.” We constantly seek innovative ways to bring the joy and benefits of rowing to more people. Today, on this significant date, we are thrilled to unveil a groundbreaking initiative poised to reshape athletic pursuits nationwide: Downhill Rowing! This revolutionary program finally opens the door for aspiring rowers who lack access to traditional waterways, harnessing the simple power of gravity to simulate the exhilarating speed of on-water rowing.
So, how does it work? Forget rivers and lakes! We’ve partnered with leading engineers to develop specialised rowing shells fitted with high-performance, low-friction wheels and a unique gyroscopic balancing system. Athletes utilise modified oars, not for propulsion, but for fine steering adjustments and maintaining aerodynamic posture as they navigate specially constructed, variable-gradient slopes. It captures the core strength, coordination, and teamwork of rowing, just… drier and significantly faster downhill. Initial trials have shown incredible potential, combining the intensity of rowing with the adrenaline rush of slope sports.
“Rowing Australia is watching the development of Downhill Rowing with keen interest. The biomechanics involved, particularly the gravity-assisted power application and high-speed balance control, present fascinating new dimensions for athlete development. While unconventional, the spirit of competition and physical demand aligns with our core values.”
- Rowing Australia CEO Sarah Cook
The sport launches with several exciting boat classes designed for different terrains and skill levels. We have:
- the “Asphalt Eights (A8+)” for smooth, paved courses requiring ultimate synchronicity and nerve;
- the rugged “Gravel Coxed Fours (G4+)” designed for navigating looser surfaces with a dedicated steerer (using a tiller-and-brake system); and
- the nimble “Concrete Singles (C1x)” for athletes seeking the ultimate test of individual balance and speed control on urban descents.
Each class demands unique strategies and equipment adaptations, promising dynamic competition.
Inclusivity is paramount to our club’s mission, and Downhill Rowing is no exception. We are incredibly proud to simultaneously launch our Para-Downhill Rowing categories. Working closely with adaptive sports specialists, we’ve developed modified wheeled shells featuring enhanced stability options, adaptive seating, and specialised oar grips.
Course designs will also feature accessibility modifications, ensuring athletes of all abilities can experience the thrill of gravity-powered rowing. We believe this will be one of the most accessible and exciting para-sport developments in years.
The excitement is palpable within the rowing community. Liam James, our Head of Innovation here at Community Rowing Club, stated, “This is a game-changer. We saw a barrier – lack of water access – and turned it into an opportunity. Downhill Rowing brings the core tenets of our sport to urban landscapes, parks, even gentle hillsides! We can finally offer rowing opportunities literally anywhere with an incline. The response from potential athletes has been overwhelming!”
Support is already pouring in from state and national bodies. Melissa Ashton-Garard, Chief Executive Officer of Rowing NSW, commented, “Rowing NSW applauds this forward-thinking initiative. Downhill Rowing drastically lowers the entry barriers to our sport. Imagine school ovals, community parks, unused car parks transformed into rowing arenas! This has the potential to dramatically increase participation across New South Wales, fostering fitness and teamwork in entirely new demographics.”
Even Rowing Australia sees the immense potential. Rowing Australia Chief Executive Officer Sarah Cook remarked, “Rowing Australia is watching the development of Downhill Rowing with keen interest. The biomechanics involved, particularly the gravity-assisted power application and high-speed balance control, present fascinating new dimensions for athlete development. While unconventional, the spirit of competition and physical demand aligns with our core values. We are already considering the streets of Rockhampton for a potential venue for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Who knows, maybe we’ll see Downhill Rowing featured in other international competitions – the sky, or rather the bottom of the hill, is the limit!”
Interested in trying Downhill Rowing? We’re hosting introductory sessions and safety briefings throughout April. Visit our website for the schedule and to sign up for this unique opportunity to make rowing history – no water required! Be among the first to experience the future of rowing, launching today, April 1st. Check the calendar, grab a helmet, and get ready to row-ll!