Asian Engagement Tour 2026 (outbound)

Under 26 rowers and coxswains are invited to apply for an exciting international tour to Hong Kong at the end of 2026.
Coaches are also encouraged to apply to lead one of two eights on this experience.

Overview

Rowing WA will select two U26 eight crews (one male, one female) and two coxswains — 18 athletes in total — to compete at the 48th Hong Kong Rowing Championships. Coxswains may be of any gender. Two Coaches will also be selected (if possible, one male and one female).

As part of the racing program, each eight will also have the opportunity to race in smaller boat classes (quad and/or four), providing broader competition exposure.

This initiative forms part of a joint athlete development and cultural engagement program, supported by funding from the Department of Creative Industries, Tourism and Sport (CITS). The grant will offset approximately 50% of the athlete fees.

This tour offers a unique opportunity for emerging and competitive athletes to gain valuable international racing experience, while representing Western Australia on an international stage.

Tour Philosophy

Building on the success of the 2024 and 2025 Asian Engagement Tours, this program continues to strengthen international relationships and create meaningful cultural connections.

The primary aim is to:

• Expose U26 athletes to international training and racing environments
• Support athletes aspiring to compete at the next level
• Foster cultural exchange and broader perspectives beyond the training/racing course

Participants will be part of an experience that balances performance, development, and connection.

Eligibility

Applicants must:

• Be under 26 (as at 12 November 2026)
• Be 18 years or older by the departure date (12 November 2026)

Athletes under 18 who wish to be considered are encouraged to contact Rowing WA directly.

Apply Now

Applications are now open for athletes, coxswains and coaches to be part of the 2026 Asian Tour.

This is a unique opportunity to represent Western Australia internationally, gain valuable racing experience, and be part of a shared cultural and team environment.

👉Apply Now: Application Form

Applications close: Friday 7 August at 09:00am

Key Dates

Please note the following indicative dates for the 2026 Asian Tour:

• Applications open: Tuesday 30 June 2026
• Applications close: Friday 7 August 2026
• SelectionEvent: Saturday 15 August 2026
• Squad announcement: Monday 7 September 2026
• Training period: Commencing Monday 21 September 2026
• Tour Departure: Thursday 12 November 2026
• Hong Kong Rowing Championships: 13-15 November 2026 (fallback 20-22 November 2026)  
• Return to Perth: Monday 23 November 2026

Further information, including training expectations, selection criteria and athlete contributions, will be provided following the close of applications.

Selection Criteria

👉: Selection Requirements Document

Find Out More

To learn more about the Asian Engagement program and past tours, explore:

• Previous tour highlights
• Rose Regatta 2026
• China 2025
• Asian Engagement Tours: Athlete experience
• Asian Engagement Tour: Coach experience
• Social media coverage
  
  

Submit your Athlete or Coach Expresssion of Interest here!

The State government through the Department of Creative Industries, Tourism and Sport  are major supporters of Rowing WA's Asian Engagement Program in Western Australia. Sport and recreation creates vibrant, inclusive and connected WA communities.