World Record broken at Welsh Indoor Championships

Rob SmithA new world record was set at this weekend’s Welsh Indoor Rowing Championships at Cardiff Bay Water Activity Centre with Rob Smith smashing his previous record with a time of 1:14.4 in the Men’s 500m Sprint.

The world record will be recognized by indoor rowers across the globe, and it was the highlight of an event which attracted a record entry of 330 individuals and 18 teams of four. Rob’s achievement had the added attraction of raising £100 for Children in Need, the result of a sweepstake by spectators in anticipation of Rob’s record attempt.

Rob, from Sussex and rowing for MAD Team, now has the opportunity to return to Cardiff Bay to stay at Wales’ first 5 star hotel, the stylish and iconic St. David’s Hotel & Spa overlooking the waterfront of Cardiff Bay.

A record number of rowers from across the UK took part in the Championships which featured a range of races, including: 2000m Individual, 3000m Team, 500m Sprint, Junior Go Race and 1000m Adaptive T&A.

There was also a record entry in the 13 adaptive events featuring disabled rowers, including locals James Roberts and Nathan Stephens who this summer both competed in the Beijing Paralympics.

Mike Hnatiw, Rowing Development & Facilities Officer at Cardiff Bay Water Activity Centre said: "This event has become a key date in the calendar for UK indoor rowers and we were delighted to host a world record and a record number of entries to keep our reputation growing."     

Councillor Nigel Howells, Executive Member for Sport, Leisure and Culture was at the event and said: "It is very encouraging to see this event growing year on year and strengthening the UK-wide reputation of Cardiff Bay Water Activity Centre for both wet and dry forms of water sports."