USRowing’s Presence on World Rowing Council and Commissions

The United States plays an active role in international rowing governance through its involvement in World Rowing, the global body responsible for the sport’s rules, competitions, and long-term development. This influence is exercised through representation on both specialized commissions and the central governing Council, giving the U.S. a voice in both technical and strategic decision-making.

At the core of this structure is the World Rowing Council, which oversees rulemaking, competition standards, and the sport’s overall direction. The Council includes Ronald Chen and Nobuhisa Ishizuka. Chen serves as Chair of the Masters Rowing Commission, a position that carries a seat on the Council and active participation in top-level decision-making. A veteran referee and longtime leader within USRowing, he has contributed to World Rowing for more than 20 years, including 16 years on the Masters Commission before becoming chair in 2019. In January, Chen was also appointed to World Rowing’s Executive Committee. Ishizuka, a co-opted Council member, contributes to governance and strategic oversight, drawing on his previous leadership as chair and secretary of the USRowing Board.

U.S. representation is also prominent on the Athletes’ Commission, which ensures that athlete perspectives are reflected in governance decisions. Robin Prendes, a two-time Olympian, serves on this commission, advocating for athletes at the international level. The commission serves as a bridge between competitors and leadership, offering input on competition rules, event organization, and athlete welfare, while communicating concerns to both the Council and the Executive Committee.

Additional contributions span several key commissions. Will Daly serves on the Coastal Rowing Commission, where he supports the global expansion and development of this rapidly growing discipline. Meanwhile, Brett Gorman, the Fred L. Emerson Jr. Head Coach for High Performance Pathways, sits on the Competitive Commission. In this role, she helps advance rowing in alignment with World Rowing’s strategic vision, promotes excellence in traditional rowing disciplines, and contributes to the sport’s long-term, sustainable development worldwide.

USRowing is represented on nearly every World Rowing Commission, reinforcing its broad influence across the sport. American representatives include Barbara Grudt on the Youth Rowing Commission, Kris Grudt on the Umpiring Commission, Kate Ackerman on the Sports Medicine Commission, and Linda Muri on the Indoor Rowing Commission. In addition, Gedi Cross and Kirsten Meisner contribute to the Events Commission, while Michael Martinov serves on the Equipment and Technology Commission.

These roles take on added importance as the sport looks ahead to major events, including the 2028 Summer Olympics and the 2028 World Rowing Championships in Florida. Through this extensive representation, the United States remains a key player in shaping the future of rowing worldwide.