The Slovenian coast recently buzzed with athletic energy as the 32nd International Portorož Regatta took place on May 3, 2026. The event was a true celebration of water sports, drawing local crowds and receiving widespread coverage from key coastal media outlets like OBALAplus and Regional Obala.
For those following the ROWACT (Rowing and Wellness through Active Community Training) project, there was a special reason to celebrate: our key local partner, Veslaški klub Piran (VK Piran), emerged as one of the absolute protagonists of the regatta.
A Historic Triumph on Home Waters
VK Piran’s young athletes put on an incredible performance, securing 1st place in the “pioneers” (youth) category and climbing to an impressive 3rd place in the overall team standings.
Seeing these young rowers dominate the waves of Portorose is a testament to the club’s high-level coaching, dedication, and deep-rooted passion for the sport. But at VK Piran, rowing is not just about training the champions of tomorrow—it is also about fostering health, community, and wellness for everyone today.
The ROWACT Connection: Rowing is for Every Age
This exact championship-winning energy and professional expertise are the driving forces behind the ROWACT project on the Slovenian coast.
ROWACT is an EU-supported initiative designed to promote rowing as a tool for physical and mental well-being, specifically targeting adults and women over 50. Through structured indoor training (on rowing ergometers) and outdoor sessions in the beautiful Gulf of Piran, the project shows that you don’t need to be a teenager to experience the life-changing benefits of rowing.
The connection is simple but powerful: the very same coaches and facility guiding youth athletes to gold medals are also welcoming our ROWACT participants. By opening their doors to the community, VK Piran is proving that rowing is a truly lifelong sport. Whether you are a 12-year-old racing for a trophy or a 55-year-old rowing to improve joint health, cardiovascular fitness, and mental clarity, the water offers the same sense of freedom, strength, and belonging.
Building a Healthier Community, One Stroke at a Time
We congratulate all the young athletes of VK Piran for their inspiring victories. Their success reminds us of what can be achieved with dedication and a supportive community—values that lie at the very heart of the ROWACT mission.
As the youth team looks forward to their next regattas, our ROWACT participants are continuing their own journey of active aging, proving that the best time to start rowing is always now.