Races on the ocean in the bay of Monaco.
On 20th and 21st February more than 400 participants are expected to attend the 5th Challenge Prince Albert II coastal rowing competition.
Most of us are familiar with rowing regattas on rivers and lakes, but may be unaware that it's also possible to practice the sport at sea. Harsh conditions caused by wind and waves mean that the boats used for ocean rowing must be wider and heavier than those used on inland water. But in spite of the more strenuous activity required, the sport is becoming ever more popular in Europe.
In Monaco, rowing on sea and lake has been popular since the Societe Nautique was founded in 1888. Each year several hundred Monegasque school children practice the sport as part of their education. Prince Albert's maternal grandfather was a triple Olympic gold medal winner in the single scull, and his uncle represented the USA at 4 Olympics, winning a bronze medal, also in the single scull.
Prince Albert himself has taken part in the Prince Albert II Challenge, which was established in 2005. This year, over 2 days, rowers will test their skills around an 8 km circuit in the bay of Monte Carlo. More than 60 clubs and 400 rowers from all around the world are expected. Check the program and watch the spectacle yourself from the harbour jetty or the Casino terrace.
