FISA Maadi Regatta '26 Progression System

Here is a ChatGPT summary of the FISA Regatta '26 proposal as requested by some Maadi Regatta supporters. 

“FISA Regatta ‘26”, authored by Sarah-Kate Millar and Nick McMaster:

🎯 Purpose of the Proposal

• To enable 2,000 additional students to compete in Maadi Regatta Finals by introducing a new race progression system.

• Designed to be more inclusive, fair, and efficient, aligning with World Rowing’s (FISA) “no reps” system, but adapted for New Zealand’s 8-lane format.
  
  

🔄 The Proposed System: FISA Regatta '26

Key Features:

• No Quarterfinals or Repechage races.

• Heats are timed, not ranked by placing.

• Preliminary races give second (or third) chances to qualify.

• All crews (except where fewer than 4 remain) race in graded Divisional Finals (A to G).

• Emphasis on fairness and streaming by ability, not just elimination.
  
  

📈 Expected Impacts

• 95% fewer eliminations (613 fewer than in 2025).

• 98% of crews (1455) get to race a final.

• More crews qualify for Final A, with multiple paths to get there.

• Up to 2000 more finalists than in the current format.

• Averages <100 races per day, completing the regatta in less time than current format.

• Aims to use regatta resources more effectively and increase student engagement.
  
  

📅 Proposed Regatta Structure (6 Days)

• Mon–Tue: Timed Heats

• Wed: Preliminary Races

• Thu: Semifinals

• Fri–Sat: Finals (A to G)
  
  

📊 By the Numbers (Based on 2025 data)

• Total races: ~583

• Race interval: 5 minutes

• Total racing hours: ~48.6

• 100 races per day is manageable and realistic (North Island Schools 2025 managed 133 in one day).

• All events offer a second chance to qualify for higher-tier Finals.
  
  

💬 Supportive Feedback from Stakeholders

• “More inclusive” – Rowing administrator

• “Helpful” – School Rowing Director

• “Fairer” – Sports Captain

• “Easily done” – Regatta organiser
  
  

📚 Philosophical Foundation

• Inspired by Bill Falconer’s 2009 vision of inclusive, ability-appropriate participation.

• Support FISA World Rowing's aspiration to have all crews to progress to graded Divisional Finals. 

• Challenges the current system that eliminates many students after Days 1, 2 or 3.

📍 Conclusion

• The FISA Regatta '26 model balances performance with participation, promoting fairness, inclusion, and more racing opportunities.

• Seeks to reshape the culture of the Maadi Regatta from one of elimination to graded competitive involvement.