Rowing boats have been around for centuries, but before the 18th century there is little mention of boat races. The first modern rowing races took place int he 2nd half of the 18th century on the River Thames in England. It became very popular as an amateur sport, and from the first University Boat Race between Oxford and Cambridge student rowing has become increasingly popular. There are several competition formats: sculling races and sweep oar rowing races (with or without cox). There are also lightweight classes (men <72.5kg, women <57.5kg). Rowing is governed by The Fédération Internationale des Sociétés d’Aviron, which was founded in 1892.
Olympic Games: