From July 16 to 20, 2026, the Russian Rowing Championship — the main domestic event of the season took place at the Krylatkoye Rowing Canal in Moscow. The competition brought together 552 athletes from 21 regions of the country. Russia’s strongest rowers from juniors to international-level masters competed over distances ranging from 500 to 2000 meters. Boats included singles, doubles, fours, and eights. Every race is a blend of synchronicity, power, and willpower that’s visible to the naked eye.
Rowing in Russia has deep historical roots: the first rowing clubs appeared in the 18th century by decree of Peter the Great, and the first Russian Championship was held in Moscow in 1892.
I was shooting on July 17, the second day of the competition. The program that day featured singles (1x) and pairs (2x, 2-), and that’s exactly what I covered.
Rowing is not just a sport. It’s rhythm, breathing, and coordination. I managed to capture not only the race itself but also the emotions after the finish. Krylatkoye lived and breathed sports during these days.
