The Americas Youth Cup unites some of the South’s fastest rowing teams, while East Coast programmes are left envying the heat and sun of Florida. Athletes are undoubtedly eager for one of the first chances to test their speed in the new year.
Belen Jesuit
Belen Jesuit is a dominant force in Floridian rowing. In this event last year, Belen won by a commanding six seconds. After strong performances in both the time-trial and semifinal, they finished a disappointing 8th at Youth Nationals. However, they rebounded this fall by finishing as the top American crew and third overall finisher at Head of the Charles. Given their strong past performances, I would be foolish not to predict Belen as the favourite to win this event.
Sarasota Crew
Similar to Belen, Sarasota Crew is a consistent powerhouse in the Florida rowing scene. They have not raced much in the quad this year, meaning it is hard to predict how this relatively untested combination will perform. Despite being known largely for their sweep rowing, Sarasota is certain to produce a solid performance in the quad given their consistency and depth. Sarasota is an incredibly strong programme, and given their dominance and home-course advantage, I would be remiss not to predict them as strong medal contenders.
Miami Rowing Club
Miami Rowing Club finished second in this event last year. However, their 2025 season was inconsistent. At Youth Nationals, they reached the C-final and finished 24th overall. At Head of the Charles, they placed 32nd, over a minute and a half behind the winners. Miami is a strong club, but they may struggle against the talent of Belen and Sarasota.
Miami Beach Rowing Club
Miami Beach enters Sarasota with a large amount of momentum. Spring. In this same event last year, Miami Beach finished fifth. At Youth Nationals, they finished a strong 14th. This fall, they have made strong improvements, highlighted by another 14th-place finish at Head of the Charles. Over the summer, Miami Beach oarsman Simon Paley won Canadian Henley in the 1v eight with Buffalo Rowing Club. Considering their upward momentum and strong talent, I would not be surprised to see Miami Beach as a top finisher this weekend.
Prediction
I think Belen Jesuit’s dominance will carry them to a victory. The consistency of Sarasota and the upward momentum of Miami Beach will create an exciting race to round out the podium.
