Krefeld takes over – and delivers perfect conditions
Essen, Germany, Elfrather See, June 24, 2026. After a short-term relocation from Krefeld, the Elfrather See presents itself as well-prepared for the most important junior race of the year with a new finish tower, mown bank areas, additional jetties, and a brand-new grandstand. Due to the high temperatures, the German Rowing Federation has adjusted the competition rules, so that the repechage races have been canceled without replacement. All information, as well as live streams from Sporteurope.TV, can be found at Rudern.Ruhr.
Tomorrow, the German rowing world looks to Krefeld. The German Junior and Age Group Championships 2026 U17/U19/U23 are about to begin – and they are doing so in a location that was not originally intended. After the short-notice relocation from Baldeneysee in Essen took over the Elfrath Lake in record time. What initially seemed like an organizational feat is now proving to be a prime example of flexibility and community commitment in German rowing. The Essener Ruder-Regattaverein e.V. (ERRV) as the organizer is supported by the Crefelder Ruderclub. The Heidelberg Regatta Association provided an additional starting pontoon.
A Herculean effort behind the scenes
The decision to withdraw the championships from the Baldeneysee was made late and, for many, surprisingly. Reasons included the rapid spread of pondweed in the Baldeneysee. This would have endangered the smooth running of the competitions and, above all, made the 2,000-meter races impossible. For everyone involved – the association, the organizers, and the athletes and coaches – this meant improvising, relocating, and replanning. Krefeld stepped in, and with remarkable determination. Within a few days, the concept was reworked, and the final renovations to the regatta course on the Elfrather See were completed.
Elfrather See in Championship Mode
The newly constructed finish tower is the most visible sign of the modernization push. It offers optimal sightlines, modern timing technology, and sufficient space for the jury and race management, representing a clear upgrade compared to the previous infrastructure. The finish tower was already completed during last year's autumn regattas on Elfrather See. However, the grandstand, which was built over the winter and spring, did not yet exist in 2025. It is a real highlight directly in the finish area and offers space for several hundred spectators. The modern structure creates a cosmopolitan atmosphere in the local recreation area. For visitors and athletes, this means perfect conditions when everything is on the line in the final meters. The shore areas have been extensively mowed and cleared, allowing for unobstructed views. And additional docks have also been provided. Because more docks mean shorter waiting times and a more relaxed start process, especially with large entry fields like at this national regatta.
Sports excitement
The German Junior and Age Group Championships are traditionally the showcase for the upcoming national team generation. Many future world champions and Olympic champions celebrated their first major titles here. Everything points to exciting races in 2026 as well. The Junior A category is considered particularly strong. Several crews have already impressed at international regattas, and the newcomers in their first year of A are also ready to compete. A broad field is expected in the U17 category – a sign of the stable youth development work of many clubs. The single scull events promise particular drama, as always, as individual class is most clearly demonstrated here.
Photo: Cesar von Meissen
Krefeld as the winner of the relocation
What began as a stopgap solution could turn out to be a stroke of luck. The Elfrather See is in top form, the city is showing itself to be hospitable and committed, and the athletes can look forward to conditions that are more than worthy of a German Championship. Due to the high temperatures, the race format has also been adjusted: the first two boats from each heat qualify directly, and further semi-final spots will be filled by the fastest boats.
The team from Baldeneysee.Ruhr wishes all athletes from Baldeneysee and the Ruhr region the best of luck in Krefeld!
