In collaboration with the Rowing in Australia Advisory Group (RiAAG), Rowing ACT will host the inaugural National Club Omnium Regatta, taking place from October 11-12, 2025, on Lake Burley Griffin in Canberra.
This new event is designed to encourage clubs and coaches to prioritise the formation and development of Club Senior crews early in the season.
By incorporating a unique three-leg format, including a 2500m time trial, 350m sprint, and a 7000m handicap race, the Omnium is set to deliver thrilling, inclusive racing that rewards consistency, preparation and club spirit.
Stephen Handley, Chair of the RiAAG, said the regatta represents a significant step forward in building a more connected and competitive club environment nationwide.
“The National Club Omnium is about giving club rowers more purpose and opportunity. It brings new energy to our domestic calendar and encourages clubs to form strong, cohesive crews from the start of the season,” Handley said.
“By combining shorter, seeded time trials with a longer handicap race, we’re levelling the playing field and creating a format where well-drilled crews of any standard can shine.”
The Omnium will be delivered by Rowing ACT and supported by RiAAG.
It will operate alongside the traditional Col Panton Marathon, with dedicated Omnium races in the Men’s and Women’s Double Sculls, Coxless Fours and Eights.
Across the two days, crews will race:
Leg 1: 2500m time trial
Leg 2: 350m sprint
Leg 3: 7000m head race over the Col Panton Marathon course, with start times handicapped based on combined day one performances.
Winners will be crowned in each boat class, while the overall Omnium Champion will be the first crew across the line in the 7000m race, regardless of category.
The Premier Club award will recognise the club with the lowest combined points across any three categories.
"Rowing ACT is excited to welcome club crews to the nation's capital in the inaugural National Club Omnium regatta," Rowing ACT Executive Officer Sarah Davoren said.
We look forward to showcasing the beauty of Lake Burley Griffin through the regatta, culminating in the race across the lake alongside the historical Col Panton Memorial Marathon from the mouth of the Molonglo River to the regatta course in front of Government House"
To foster community and camaraderie, participating clubs are encouraged to set up around Yarralumla Bay and Orana Bay, where facilities for boating, parking and club interaction will be available.
The eligibility criteria have been tailored to include a broad range of athletes, with specific conditions allowing for composite crews within states and regions.
The format accommodates developing rowers while still enabling participation from those with international experience under certain conditions.
Crews must enter via Rowing ACT’s Rowing Manager portal by 5:00 PM AEST on Friday, September 26, 2025.
This event forms part of a larger strategy by RiAAG to build momentum around Club category events in the lead-up to the 2026 Australian Rowing Championships.
The handicap-based format aims to make racing more accessible and competitive for a wide range of crews, regardless of prior results.
Stay tuned for further details, including boat hire facilities and regatta logistics.
For more information and to register, visit: National Club Omnium Regatta - Homepage