Month: August 2025

Ghent, Belgium – On August 30, 2025, 35 rowing teams from Belgium and the Netherlands competed in 20 sloops and 15 flat-bottomed boats on the canals of Ghent, reports 24brussels.

The annual Battle of Ghent saw teams race under the organization of the Carolus Quinto rowing team, affiliated with the sea scout group “De Wilde End.” The event raised funds to support the team’s participation in the upcoming biennial Atlantic Challenge, an international long-distance rowing competition.

This year’s competition featured two types of boats: nimble sloops designed for speed and larger flat-bottomed boats tailored for stability. Each of the small metal pontoons utilized in the race held a crew of four, while the sloops carried crews between six and twelve rowers. Approximately 500 spectators gathered along the Korenlei to cheer as the rowers approached the finish line.

Event Highlights and Future Prospects

The award ceremony is scheduled for 5:30 PM, where winners will be announced and medals presented. Following the ceremony, around 300 rowers and their coaches will gather for a communal meal at the marina on Snepkaai. Proceeds from today’s race will contribute to Team Carolus Quinto’s preparations for the Atlantic Challenge in Denmark next year.

Previously, Team Carolus Quinto triumphed at the Atlantic Challenge hosted in the United States in 2024. The competition, taking place every two years, has featured different locations, with the last events occurring in the United Kingdom in 2020 and France in 2022. The next iteration is set for Denmark in 2026, consisting of several days of rowing events.

Over the years, Team Carolus Quinto has participated in various national and European regattas to enhance their experience. Local supporters play an essential role in fundraising efforts, with today’s race at Korenlei being a prime example of community involvement.