Inaugural Small Boat Scottish Championships

Loch Insh – 28th–29th March 2026

The first-ever Small Boat Scottish Championships, held at Loch Insh over the weekend of 28th–29th March 2026, proved to be a memorable and hard-fought event, defined by resilience, adaptability, and true Scottish spirit. Originally planned as a two-day celebration of small boat rowing, the weekend was set to feature social rowing on the Saturday followed by a full programme of racing on the Sunday. Crews from across Scotland arrived in high spirits, eager to be part of this landmark occasion.

However, the weather quickly became a defining factor. Cold temperatures, strong winds, and wintry conditions swept across the loch, creating a challenging and at times unpredictable environment for rowing. Sunday in particular brought difficult conditions that ultimately limited the ability to run racing as planned. With deteriorating weather and safety considerations at the forefront, it became clear that the full race schedule could not go ahead on the second day.

In response, organisers made the decision to maximise racing opportunities on the Saturday. Despite similarly challenging conditions, crews and officials pushed ahead, determined to make the most of the available window. Racing took place throughout the day in testing circumstances, with intermittent snow blizzards sweeping across the course between races. While the conditions were far from ideal, they added a unique and memorable dimension to the competition. Crews showed great determination and adaptability, embracing the elements and delivering competitive racing across the events that were able to run.

The success of the racing that did take place was a testament to the flexibility and commitment of everyone involved. Organisers, safety teams, and volunteers worked tirelessly to adjust schedules and ensure that racing could proceed safely, while competitors demonstrated impressive resilience in the face of the conditions.

Results Summary

Women’s solo      Selkie

Class Results

Special Prizes

Although the championships did not unfold exactly as originally planned, the inaugural event can still be considered a strong success. Meaningful racing was achieved, the small boat community came together, and the foundations were laid for what promises to become a key event in the Scottish rowing calendar. The 2026 Small Boat Scottish Championships will be remembered for battling through snow, wind, and uncertainty—but above all, for the spirit in which it was conducted. With lessons learned and enthusiasm high, future editions will look to build on this promising start—hopefully with kinder weather, but with the same determination that defined this first championship. Thanks to the SCRA for their financial contribution to the event and also thanks go to Loch Insh Water Sport facility for allowing the event to be held there and for providing a much needed feast on the Saturday evening. With no rowing the next day the Small boat community certainly took advantage of the charms of the Beach restaurant. Every cloud as they say!

The Fleet :

For images on facebook see Alan Stott: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/18NiuDrADL/

(Image attached  – calm before the storm!)