A rower may compete as a masters rower from the beginning of the year during which he or she turns 27. Masters rowers are then placed in categories A to M, 'A' being an average of 27 years or over, and 'M' being an average of 89 years or over. Dependent on the age they turn that year, the masters rower will then compete against others with the same average age in the respective category. The average and minimum age of a crew competing excludes that of the coxswain.
The aim of a masters rower can be everything from recreational rowing to competing at regattas. The masters World Rowing event is the World Rowing Masters Regatta. Racing takes place over a 1000m distance and the regatta can attract over 3,000 rowers.
Masters rowing also focuses on the health and fitness benefits of rowing, socialising and forming friendships.
Masters rowing age groups
The age of a rower in a masters rowing event shall be that which he/she attains during the year of the event. Masters rowing events shall be held in the following crew age categories:
- A. Minimum age: 27 years
- B. Average age: 36 years or more
- C. Average age: 43 years or more
- D. Average age: 50 years or more
- E. Average age: 55 years or more
- F. Average age: 60 years or more
- G. Average age: 65 years or more
- H. Average age: 70 years or more
- I. Average age: 75 years or more
- J. Average age: 80 years or more
- K. Average age: 83 years or more
- L. Average age: 86 years or more
- M. Average age: 89 years or more
Age categories do not apply to coxswains of masters crews. Each competitor shall be responsible for his/her own health and fitness.
Every masters rower must be in a position to prove his/her age by presentation of an official document (passport or identity card).