USRowing Announces Roster for Shanghai Sprints

USRowing is pleased to announce the athletes selected to represent the United States at the inaugural World Rowing Shanghai Sprints, taking place September 26-27 in Shanghai, China.

The event debuts a new chapter in international rowing, bringing together eight of the world's top rowing nations for head-to-head, 500-meter knockout races on Shanghai's Suzhou Creek. The innovative format is designed to showcase elite competition in a fast-paced, fan-friendly setting, with racing taking place in the heart of Shanghai.

Nine of the 10 selected athletes represented the United States on the 2025 national team, including six Olympians. The roster features Olympians Chris Carlson and Jacob Plihal, alongside Cedar Cunningham, who finished fourth in the men's quadruple sculls at the 2025 World Rowing Championships. Olympians Teal Cohen and Kate Knifton join the roster after helping the U.S. capture the world title in the women's four last year. Sam Melvin enters the event following a standout World Cup season that included gold and bronze medals in the men's single sculls at World Rowing Cup II and III. Olympian Grace Joyce and Isa Darvin raced together in the women's double sculls at the 2025 World Rowing Championships, where they placed eighth. Olympian Sophia Vitas also brings extensive international experience, highlighted by a bronze medal in the women's double sculls at the 2023 World Rowing Championships. Sam Sullivan continues his rise after being part of the first U.S. men's Under 23 four to win a world championship title last summer. 

The coxswain for the team will be selected following the 2026 World Rowing Championships.

The athletes selected to compete are:

Chris Carlson

Teal Cohen

Cedar Cunningham

Isa Darvin

Grace Joyce

Kate Knifton

Sam Melvin

Jacob Plihal

Sam Sullivan

Sophia Vitas