The Barrow Challenge 2025 is a unique 18km rowing race down the scenic River Barrow, taking place on Sunday, 12th October 2025. The route runs from St. Mullins (Co. Carlow) to New Ross (Co. Wexford), passing key river landmarks and stunning countryside across Carlow, Kilkenny, and Wexford counties.
– Start: Old Stone Bridge, St. Mullins.
– Finish: Just before New Ross Bridge, with crews required to row through the main centre arches to complete the race.
– Total Distance: 18km, following the centre of the river—cutting bends is not allowed.
– Start time is 11am, with crews departing every 30 seconds in a fixed head race format.
For full course and timing details please see the Course map and Traffic plan document at the bottom
– Notable river features include The Scar, a 180° bend at Coolhill Castle, Ferry Bridge, The Wreck, and Railway Bridge. More details in the course map and Traffic plan below.
– Specific safety instructions at bridges: crews must pass through designated arches and strictly avoid overtaking or unsafe maneuvers near bridges. More details in the course map and Traffic plan below.
– Launch and warm-up at St. Mullins; return pattern after finishing is via the Kilkenny side under New Ross Bridge
For full course feature details please see the Course map and Traffic plan document at the bottom
– The event follows Rowing Ireland rules; only competent and physically capable crews or scullers should enter.
– Safety is emphasised: wear lifejackets and obey marshals’ instructions at all times.
– All equipment must be compliant with safety standards, and each club is responsible for appropriate insurance.
– The coxes’ briefing is at 9:45am; all trailers should arrive at St. Mullins before 9am
For full safety and entry details please see the Itinerary and Information and the Safety Statement documents below.
– Bow numbers are only given when entry fees are paid in full.
– Results are published online, with prizes for events with three or more entries.
– After the finish, crews must row past Dunbrody ship for a safe warm down before returning to the club
Enjoy spectacular scenery and a challenging course, from the tranquil start at St. Mullins to an exciting finish in New Ross. Please read all safety updates and follow the linked course map, safety statement, and itinerary for full details.
To view a previous version of the Barrow Challenge which was covered by RTE Nationwide, please take a look at the video below
Safety Statement
Course Map and Traffic Plan
Itinerary and additional Information