Robert Paterson

Raphael Kaiser, who coaches at Aviron Knowlton, competed in the 2024 World Rowing Coastal Championships in Genoa, Italy, in September, where he secured second place in the B final of the men’s singles event. This finish makes him the 20th fastest in the world.

“What I love about coastal rowing,” said Kaiser, “is the danger and the chaos. It is both an adrenaline rush and a uniquely cooperative sport, where the dangers and challenges inspire cooperation and community between the competitors.”

The regatta attracted more than 600 athletes from 35 nations, spread across seven boat classes. Coastal rowing, known for its endurance challenges, is raced in open water with rowers navigating a course filled with buoys and sharp turns, often in rough seas. The B final is typically composed of athletes who didn’t qualify for the A final, which featured the top contenders.“

“What was new for me, as I trained on choppy days at Lac-Brome, was the size of the ocean waves at Genoa. Seated inches above the water, it was like being on a roller coaster. But now, I know what to expect; I am sure that I can make the A final next year.”