U23 world champs ‘26
Reading University Boat Club (RUBC) recently achieved phenomenal success on the international stage at the World Rowing Under 23 Championships. Our athletes delivered stunning performances, showcasing the relentless dedication, grit, and high-performance coaching that define the club.
World Champions and Podium Finishes
Matt Long spearheaded our gold rush, claiming the prestigious title of U23 World Champion after a fiercely contested race. Matt and his crew executed a brilliant tactical performance to secure the top step of the podium, capping off an exceptional season for the men's sculling group.
Building on this momentum, Zara and her crew powered through a stellar campaign to capture the U23 World Championship Silver Medal. Coached by RUBC's own Chris Bartley, Zara's success highlights the world-class training environment fostered right here at the club, putting RUBC firmly back on the international podium.
Strong Finalist Showings
Meg Knight also represented the club with distinction, competing in a fiercely contested B Final in the Women's Single Sculls. In a tightly packed field where less than five seconds separated all six athletes at the halfway mark, Knight raced hard to the finish line to place sixth in the final, securing 12th overall in the world.
This accomplishment adds another milestone to Meg’s remarkable international career. Having previously claimed a bronze medal in the Women's Quadruple Sculls and raced in the Women's Double Sculls last season, she has now competed in all three major sculling boat classes across three consecutive U23 World Championships.
Congratulations to all our athletes, coaches, and support staff for an unforgettable international racing season!
