Zhik, the trailblazing Aussie water sports brand, has been unveiled as the exclusive outfitter of the German National Team in Coastal Rowing - Beach Sprint. Announced at Boot Düsseldorf, this groundbreaking partnership between the German Rowing Association (DRV) and Zhik will equip the team with cutting-edge water and onshore apparel, ensuring peak performance in this electrifying new Olympic discipline. Backed by Zhik’s German distributor, Peter Frisch GmbH, the collaboration is set to run through the entire Olympic cycle leading up to Los Angeles 2028.
A brave new world for rowing, the 2028 Games mark a historic moment for the sport, as rowing will feature two distinct disciplines for the first time. Alongside traditional fine rowing over 1500m, Coastal Rowing - Beach Sprint will make its Olympic debut, with medals up for grabs in three boat classes. Fast-paced, fiercely competitive, and a visual spectacle, this discipline blends extreme athleticism with the raw energy of surf, sand, and sea. Success in this event demands unparalleled strength, endurance, coordination, technique, and mental grit.
"As Olympic athletes, we chase fractions of a second every day to compete at the highest level," says Karl Schulze, two-time Olympic champion and bronze medallist at the 2023 World Rowing Beach Sprint Finals. "In Coastal Rowing - Beach Sprint, the right gear is critical—it must be breathable, quick-drying, and protective against extreme elements, all while allowing maximum freedom of movement. Zhik delivers on every front, with cutting-edge design and performance-driven technology. I can’t wait to go after medals in this kit."
The DRV, the world’s largest rowing association, and Zhik, industry leader in high-performance water sports gear, are committed to pushing the boundaries of innovation. This partnership isn’t just about branding, it’s about pioneering new materials and manufacturing techniques that will give German athletes the competitive edge on their Olympic journey.
"Winning a medal at the 2028 Olympic debut of Coastal Rowing - Beach Sprint is our clear goal," says Adrian Bretting, National Coach. "To get there, we need the best partners—ones with deep expertise in performance gear for extreme environments. With Zhik and the team at Peter Frisch GmbH, we’ve found the perfect fit. This collaboration will elevate our athletes and support staff to deliver their absolute best."
Alexander Kersten, Board Member for Administration and Finance at DRV, echoes this sentiment: "This partnership strengthens Germany’s international competitiveness in the rapidly growing world of Coastal Rowing - Beach Sprint. Zhik’s ‘Made for Water’ ethos aligns perfectly with our ambitions. Their expertise in maritime sports will be invaluable in our pursuit of excellence."
Zhik CEO and two-time Olympic sailing champion Mat Belcher is equally excited: "We are proud to support the DRV on their journey to peak performance in Coastal Rowing - Beach Sprint. This is more than a sponsorship - it’s a shared commitment to innovation, excellence, and redefining what’s possible in the sport."
With the countdown to Los Angeles 2028 underway, Germany’s Coastal Rowing team is set to be fast, fearless and first - powered by Zhik, made for water, and driven to win.
