United We Row

Adaptive & Classification

Rowing is one of the most adaptable sports. From modifications to equipment to the way rowing is communicated and coached, adaptive rowing provides a competitive or recreational space for rowers with physical, intellectual, or other impairments that require the support of others to be able to row. Rowing on the water or indoors offers people with disabilities a variety of ways to increase muscle strength, cardiac health, and increased range of motion. For many athletes, the opportunity to be on the water, join a team, and compete with other rowers is fun and rewarding. It could be for you!

USRowing is actively promoting athlete classification opportunities for para rowing. Classification is a required step for athletes looking to compete in para rowing events and progress along the para pathway. This document outlines upcoming opportunities, requirements, timelines, and how athletes can request classification.

How to Request Classification

Athletes must complete the official request form to be considered for a classification session.

Request Classification JotForm
Para Classification Process (Overview & Requirements)

Important Requirements & Deadlines

Please read carefully before submitting a request.

All required medical and classification paperwork must be submitted at least 60 days prior to the desired classification event.
Classification sessions are by appointment only.
Sessions will only be scheduled once a minimum of three (3) athlete requests are received for a specific event.
Classification events are finalized based on athlete demand and classifier availability.

Early submission is strongly encouraged to ensure adequate time for review and scheduling.

Planned Classification Opportunities

The following events are planned opportunities for athlete classification. Final confirmation is dependent on athlete demand (minimum of three requests per event). Classification occurs the day before the event.

2026 USRowing Classification Opportunities

USRowing Indoors, Chicago, IL
- Request for Classification and Medical documentation due: December 6, 2025
- Classification Date: Feb 6, 2026
- Competition Date: Feb 7, 2026
The Knecht Cup, Camden, NJ
- Request for Classification and Medical documentation due: February 10, 2026
- Classification Date: April 10, 2026
- Competition Date: April 11-12, 2026
Bayada Regatta, Camden, NJ
- Request for Classification and Medical documentation due: July 26, 2026
- Classification Date: Sept 26, 2026
- Competition Date: Sept 27, 2026
Head of the Charles, Boston, MA
- Request for Classification and Medical documentation due: August 15, 2026
- Classification Date: Oct 15, 2026
- Competition Date: Oct 16-18, 2026
Head of the Hooch, Chattanooga, TN
- Request for Classification and Medical documentation due: Sept 6, 2026
- Classification Date: Nov 6, 2026
- Competition Date: Nov 7-8, 2026
2026 World Rowing Classification Opportunities
2026 Paris Para Rowing Regatta (PI, possible VI) - deadline to submit 2-Mar-26
2026 World Rowing Cup - Lucerne (PI only) - deadline to submit 27-Apr-26
2026 World Rowing U23 Championships (PI only) - deadline to submit 22-May-26
2026 World Rowing Championships (PI, VI) - deadline to submit 23-Jun-26

Additional details and confirmations will be communicated once classification sessions are scheduled.

Commitment to Athlete Access

USRowing is committed to expanding access to para rowing and will make every effort to accommodate athletes seeking classification. While not every request may result in a confirmed session, athlete demand directly informs where and when classification opportunities are offered.

Athletes, coaches, and clubs are encouraged to share this information widely to help build sufficient demand for each event.

Want to start an adaptive program at your rowing organization or want to better support your athletes with disabilities?

Start with USRowing’s free Adaptive Coaching Education Course that covers everything from working with different disability populations to adaptive rigging and training to how to start an adaptive program and more. A USRowing Basic membership and Level 1 or 2 coaching certification are required to access the free training. Coaches must maintain an active USRowing membership for their coach certification to be valid.

Find a Club

USRowing clubs across the country will welcome athletes with disabilities into their community. It’s our shared goal to get you on the water and experience our shared love of rowing. Over 60 USRowing Clubs support Adaptive Rowing in the US, find yours today via the Find a Club Feature.