Opening Ceremony
Opening Ceremony Launches European Universities Rowing Championship 2025 in Bydgoszcz
The Opening Ceremony of the European Universities Rowing Championship was held on 18 September on the picturesque Mill Island in Bydgoszcz.
The ceremony was graced by the presence of the Mayor of Bydgoszcz, Mr. Rafał Bruski, the Rector of Kazimierz Wielki University, Professor Bernard Mendlik, and the European Rowing Board Member, Mr. Algirdas Raslanas.
On behalf of the Organising Committee, participants were warmly welcomed by Katarzyna Domańska, President of the University Sports Association at Kazimierz Wielki University (KU AZS UKW Bydgoszcz).
Representing the EUSA Executive Committee, EUSA Honorary Member Mr. Filipe Santos extended his greetings to all participants, wishing the athletes success as they prepare to showcase their skills and talents. He also expressed gratitude to the Organising Committee for their dedication and hard work.
The Championship is organised by the University Sports Association of Kazimierz Wielki University in Bydgoszcz, in cooperation with Kazimierz Wielki University, the City of Bydgoszcz, the Marshal’s Office of the Kuyavian-Pomeranian Voivodeship, the Ministry of Sport and Tourism, the Polish Rowing Federation, and with the support of Bydgoszcz Sports Centre, Volvo Car Bydgoszcz, Carrefour, and many other partners and sponsors. Athlete gifts were kindly provided by Fale Loki Koki and Ziaja.
Both the city and the university have a proud tradition of hosting international university sporting events, including the European Universities Rowing Championship 2023, the 2022 FISU World University Canoe Sprint Championship, the online FISU World University Mind Sports Championship, the 2019 European Universities Handball Championship, and the 6th World University Shooting Sport Championship. This track record reflects their professionalism and commitment to excellence, further strengthened by the strong support of the local municipality, civic institutions, and sports organisations.
The 2025 Championship will be held from 19–21 September at the Brdyujście Regatta Course, welcoming 512 athletes representing 77 universities from 20 countries. The competition promises thrilling races while fostering the values of fair play, friendship, and cultural exchange at the highest level of university sport.
The Opening Ceremony also featured an energetic performance by KODA, whose rock and pop music brought to life the cultural vibrancy of the host city.
In line with EUSA’s commitment to sustainability, the organisers introduced several eco-friendly initiatives, including digital information systems and reusable water stations across the venues.
Beyond the competition, the organisers hope the Championship will leave a lasting legacy for university sport in the region, inspiring future generations of athletes and setting a benchmark for hosting international events.
For more information, please visit: rowing2025.eusa.eu