Joanie Delgaco found herself reflecting not just on competition, but on how far Philippine rowing has come.

The country’s first Filipina Olympic rower witnessed a significant milestone as the 2026 Philippine Rowing Association Indoor Meet drew a surge of participants, transforming what was once a small gathering into a thriving event at the University Hotel in UP Diliman, Quezon City on March 28–29.

From a modest start in limited spaces, the sport has steadily gained traction, with Delgaco noting the growing number of athletes and enthusiasts now eager to take part.

Rising interest signals shift for rowing

Instead of a quiet, niche discipline, rowing is beginning to carve out a stronger presence in the local sports scene. The latest PRA meet drew more than 100 entries—a sharp rise from the handful of participants in previous editions.

Delgaco expressed her appreciation for the visible enthusiasm, pointing out how more Filipinos are discovering and enjoying the sport. The increasing turnout reflects a shift from obscurity toward broader recognition.

Kristine Paraon echoed the sentiment, emphasizing how the sport is now reaching a wider audience. For athletes who once competed in near-empty events, the growing community represents both validation and opportunity.

Development efforts aim for long-term growth

The meet also serves a larger purpose beyond competition, functioning as a key recruitment platform for the national team. Athletes are evaluated not only on performance but also on their potential to contribute to the program’s future.

Foreign coach Aliaksandra Tsekhanovich stressed the importance of expanding rowing beyond Metro Manila, calling for more clubs across the regions to make the sport accessible to more Filipinos.

With the Philippines surrounded by waterways, she pointed to the country’s natural advantage, noting that accessibility and awareness remain the biggest challenges to overcome.

As participation continues to grow and development efforts gain momentum, Philippine rowing appears to be entering a new phase—one defined not just by elite results, but by a widening base of athletes inspired to take up the sport.