Graphic: Cesar von Meissen
Kettwig celebrates its 30th anniversary and technological breakthrough
When on February 1, 2026 in the gymnasium of the Theodor-Heuss-Gymnasium in the Essen district Kettwig As the first races get underway, a special day begins for rowing in North Rhine-Westphalia. The NRW Indoor Rowing Championships are celebrating their 30th anniversary – and presenting themselves as more modern than ever before. Under the official title "30th NWRV Indoor Cup & 1st German RP3 Open," the event marks a turning point: For the first time, rowers will no longer be using Concept2 ergometers, but rather dynamic RP3 machines. A competition steeped in tradition, a new technological chapter, and a top-class field of competitors – Kettwig is ready for an indoor rowing festival that is sure to set new standards. For spectators unable to attend in person, the event will be streamed live via Sporteurope.tv.
Anniversary with a symbolic impact
For three decades, the Indoor Cup was a fixture on the winter rowing calendar. Until 2025, the German Championship titles in ergometer rowing were even awarded in Kettwig. The races on Concept2 machines were legendary – not least because the competition machines were traditionally sold at a discount afterward. However, 2026 marks a turning point: the championships will be held on RP3 rowing ergometers for the first time. This move will set new standards both in terms of sport and technology.
Strong starting field – NRW elite meets ambitious young talent
The Indoor Cup is traditionally a meeting place for the country's best rowers. Numerous clubs have registered again this year, including Alexandra Föster and the entire German Coastal Rowing National Team. In addition, there are strong junior, senior, and masters classes, as well as young rowers aged 12 and up. This first test of form this year will therefore be a true benchmark – and, thanks to the new RP3 format, even more demanding.
Essen clubs dominate the picture – clubs from Baldeneysee and Ruhr
Essen's rowing scene is diverse, and many of the participating clubs are based at the Baldeneysee – one of Germany's most important rowing areas – and along the Ruhr River. Clubs affiliated with the Baldeneysee include the Essen-Werdener Rowing Club (EWRC), the ETUF Rowing Club, and the Turnverein 1877. Essen-Kupferdreh (TVK) and Ruderklum am Baldeneysee (RaB) have registered their athletes. Steeler Ruder-Verein (Steeler RV). These clubs traditionally field strong athletes – from up-and-coming talents to experienced competitive athletes. Baldeneysee and Ruhr, who regularly occupy top positions at championships, most recently at the 2025 German Sprint Championships in Wiesbaden. Not to be forgotten are the clubs from the Ruhr region, the Steeler Rowing Club (Steeler RV) and the Kettwig Rowing Society (KRG). As the organizer and one of the largest clubs in the region, the KRG is also represented by a large and ambitious team. Their home advantage and experience as hosts make them one of the key clubs at the event.
RP3 instead of Concept2 – what's behind the change?
RP3 machines are considered the most realistic ergometer simulation of rowing on water currently available. Unlike stationary ergometers, not only the sliding seat but also parts of the machine itself move on the RP3. This creates a dynamic rowing motion that closely resembles rowing in a boat. The key differences at a glance are dynamic rather than static, a focus on technique, a water-like rowing feel, and new challenges in competition. While the athlete moves and the machine remains stationary on the Concept2, the entire RP3 system "glides" along with the athlete – much like a boat on water. The RP3 provides detailed strength curves and motion analyses that are particularly valued in competitive rowing. The water-like rowing feel is achieved through a smoother movement rhythm, resulting in a more consistent workload and ideal for technically sound training.
Complex coordination – exciting races
Many athletes will have to adjust to different timing and a different feel, as training is typically done on Concept2 rowing ergometers. As the KRG (Kreissportgemeinschaft, or District Rowing Association) reports on its website, RP3 Managing Director Jan Lammers welcomes the cooperation and intends to expand it further. Each participating club received one or more machines six weeks before the event. The equipment rental fee of €150 is credited towards the entry fee, so for multiple participants, the provision of equipment is essentially cost-neutral. An RP3 S Dynamic Black Edition costs just under €2,500. Just as in previous years the Concept2 machines were sold after the Indoor Cup, RP3 ergometers can now also be purchased for just under €2,000. A total of 50 RP3 machines were made available to the clubs for competition preparation – nevertheless, some athletes decided against participating. Athletes with less muscle mass, who typically struggle on Concept2 machines, could benefit from this arrangement. In any case, the change should make the races more exciting – and possibly lead to some surprises.
The team from Baldeneysee.Ruhr wishes all athletes from Baldeneysee and the Ruhr region the best of luck in Kettwig!
Livestream on February 1st, 2026
The gymnasium of the Theodor-Heuss-Gymnasium will be transformed into an indoor arena on February 1st – loud, energetic, and atmospheric. Those who can't get a seat or prefer to watch from afar can follow the races live on Sporteurope.tv. The broadcast is scheduled to begin at 9:15 a.m. The stream will not only show the competitions but also provide interesting background information through commentary. The 30th NWRV Indoor Cup and the 1st German RP3 Open will undoubtedly combine tradition with innovation. The technological changes, the strong field of competitors, and the special atmosphere in Kettwig promise a day of competition that will elevate rowing in North Rhine-Westphalia to a new level.
Source: sportdeutschland.tv
