Following the continued success of the international 5 Miles From Home challenge, organised by Scotland Coastal Rowing Association, Ocean to City and Welsh Sea Rowing, we are delighted to launch the event again for 2026.

The challenge gives crews the opportunity to take part from their own local waters while being part of a worldwide coastal rowing community. Participants can complete a 5-mile course close to home, with results adjusted using our handicap system to ensure a fair competition across a wide range of human-powered coastal craft.

As in previous years, most types of human-powered coastal craft are eligible to enter, including coastal rowing boats, kayaks and SUPs. Land-based participation options will also be available for anyone unable to get on the water.

The challenge can be joined from anywhere in the world, with participants completing the course from their home waters and sharing in the global spirit of the event.

Entries open on Wednesday 15 July 2026, and participants will have from 2 September to 6 September 2026 to complete their 5 Miles From Home challenge.

For full event details, registration information and entry links, please visit:

https://www.searowing.wales/2026/07/09/5-miles-from-home-2026/

Join our #5milesfromhome mailing list and we'll keep you up to date:

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The organisers of 5 Miles From Home would like to thank everyone for their continued support. We look forward to another fantastic year of participation, community spirit and friendly competition. Don't forget to take photos and share them using #5milesfromhome.

Thanks,

Scottish Coastal Rowing Association, Ocean to City & Welsh Sea Rowing

Event details and schedule

Event Schedule

• Entries Open: Wednesday 15 July 2026
• Registration deadline: 11pm Wednesday 26th August 2026
• Challenge Window: 2–6 September 2026
• Crews may complete their 5-mile challenge at any time during the event window.
• Results and submission details will be provided to all entrants before the event.

Course Information

Participants must complete a 5-mile (8km) course from their home waters during the challenge period.

• Courses can be planned locally by individual clubs and crews.
• Please choose a route suitable for your craft, crew experience and prevailing conditions.
• All local navigation rules and safety requirements must be followed.
• Results will be adjusted using the event handicap system to allow fair competition across different craft types.

Waivers and Identification

By entering the challenge, participants confirm that:

• They understand the risks associated with coastal and open-water activity.
• They are fit and competent to take part.
• Their craft complies with local safety requirements.
• They will follow all event rules and guidance.

Any event declarations or waiver forms will need to be completed as part of the entry process.

Don't Forget

✅ Register before the entry deadline

✅ Complete your challenge between 2–6 September 2026

✅ Follow local safety guidance and weather forecasts

✅ Record your distance and time accurately

✅ Take plenty of photos

✅ Share your experience using #5milesfromhome

We look forward to seeing crews and paddlers from around the world taking part in 5 Miles From Home 2026. Good luck and enjoy the challenge! 🌊🚣‍♀️🚣‍♂️🛶