Best in Industry Event Award

RITA continues its commitment to identifying and elevating best practices that strengthen the sport’s ecosystem. This award reflects RITA’s ongoing efforts to support high standards of event execution, engagement, and industry partnership.

While many recognized events will be regattas, the award uses the broader term “event” to reflect the full range of experiences that shape the rowing calendar. These include conferences, indoor races, symposiums, and other gatherings that bring athletes, coaches, organizers, and industry partners together.

Award Categories

Awards will be presented in the following categories:

  • North America – Large Event (Over 300 entries)
  • North America – Small/Medium Event (Under 300 entries)
  • Europe – Large Event (Over 300 entries)
  • Europe – Small/Medium Event (Under 300 entries)
  • Emerging & International Event (Any size)

Rowing is a global sport. At this time, all events outside of North America and Europe will be eligible for the Emerging & International Event category. Categories may evolve in future years as participation and data availability expand.

Evaluation Criteria

Events will be evaluated in alignment with RITA’s core values:

Professionalism
Clear communication, fair contracting, reliable planning, and high operational standards throughout event delivery.

Safety
Visible commitment to participant and operational safety through thoughtful site design, coordination, and contingency planning.

Inclusion
Intentional efforts to reduce barriers and create welcoming experiences for a diverse range of participants and stakeholders.

Sustainability
Responsible stewardship of resources and practices that support the long-term viability of the event and its venue.

Collaboration
Meaningful integration of vendors and partners into the event experience, fostering mutual benefit across the rowing community.

Innovation
Forward-thinking ideas and continuous improvements that influence the future of rowing events.

The award will not evaluate weather or water conditions, race seeding, race results, officiating decisions, or off-site accommodations.

Nomination Process

The 2026 award cycle will include events held between January 1 and December 31, 2026. Nominations will be accepted through January 15, 2027.

Events may self-nominate by outlining how they meet the published criteria. RITA members may also nominate events based on their direct experience. Winners will be selected by the RITA Board of Directors and announced on February 15, 2027.