Veteran rower Graham Bagnall (C2 1960-64) delivered an outstanding performance at the World Masters Rowing Championships, held at Lake Bled, Slovenia, from 9 to 13 September 2026, securing two gold medals and narrowly missing out on a third.

The prestigious international event attracted approximately 4,733 athletes from 52 countries, all competing over a challenging 1,000-metre course. Competitors raced in age categories arranged in five-year bands, ranging from 28 years old to 92 years of age, demonstrating the enduring appeal of rowing across generations.

Representing his age group, Bagnall competed in three separate crews during the championships. His first success came as part of an eight-person crew that claimed gold in the 70-75 age category. He followed this achievement with a second gold medal in another eight, this time winning the 80-85 age category event.

Bagnall came close to completing a remarkable hat-trick of victories when he raced in a coxless four competing in the 75-80 age category. After a fiercely contested race, the crew finished just half a second behind the winners, taking second place in one of the closest finishes of the regatta.

The achievements highlight Bagnall’s continued commitment and success in masters rowing, as well as the high standard of competition at one of the sport’s largest international events.

With two gold medals and a near miss for a third title, the championships proved to be a memorable and highly successful outing for the experienced rower at the renowned Lake Bled venue.