15th Annual Classic Balaton Cross-Lake Row in Fonyód

The Classic Balaton Rowing Race is one of Fonyód’s most spectacular and popular water sports events, which will welcome rowing enthusiasts for the eleventh time in 2026. The event builds on the traditions of previous years, while offering an expanded range of categories and a variety of accompanying programs: a full day of sports and community activities for participants, as well as for their accompanying family members and spectators.

Competitors can enter in the categories of kayak, canoe, stand-up paddleboard (SUP), and other rowing watercraft. Female and male participants will start together in each category, but their results are evaluated and awarded separately. In addition to the classic Fonyód–Badacsony–Fonyód route, those seeking a greater challenge can choose a longer, 21-kilometer course. This route takes rowers along the Fonyód–Balatonfenyves–Fonyód–Badacsony–Fonyód course.

The event day begins with morning registration, a ceremonial opening, and a group warm-up, followed by the starts of the individual categories. Sailboats equipped with buoys and motorboats monitoring the competitors will help ensure the safe completion of the course. The sports program concludes with the announcement of the results, and the entire event is scheduled to last until the early evening.

The organizers haven’t forgotten about the competitors’ guests or the visitors either. While everyone waits, musical performances will liven up the event, and at the end of the day, a musical performance will thank the participants for visiting Fonyód. According to plans, the rowing event will be complemented in 2026 by the Ásványvíz (Mineral Water) Festival, where invited companies will be able to showcase their products.

The event is open to amateur and experienced athletes, local residents, Lake Balaton vacationers, and interested visitors from other parts of the country. The maximum number of participants is 500.

Participation in the competition in 2026 is free, but registration is required.

https://balatonatevezesfonyod.hu/