Solidarity. Endurance. Determination. Are you up for The Challenge?

The Saltwater Challenge is held annually on the first Saturday of September (subject to confirmation by Rowing Victoria) on the picturesque Maribyrnong River. Quad Sculls attest their endurance over the gruelling 4.5km course, commencing upstream at the Tea Gardens Reserve near Canning Street Avondale Heights and finished in ERC's home straight, which is best viewed from upstairs at the Essendon Rowing Club.

The first Saltwater Challenge was held in 2002 and saw 21 entries. Growing every year, the event has hosted 3 brackets of racing since 2012 and in 2019 hit a record number of 200 entries with 794 competitors.

The regatta now draws in crews from interstate, former Olympians and a strong representation of rowers from all levels across Victoria.

Could you take on the ultimate challenge and compete in all three brackets?

Could you be the fastest crew this year? 

Or will your crew take out the biggest winning margin?