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HUDSON Boat Works

General 4 June 2026
Karissa Rowing

HUDSON is proud to support 2026 FISU World University Championships Rowing.

Based in London, Ontario, HUDSON is recognized for its athlete-focused approach, innovative design, and high-performance rowing shells. With its commitment to supporting rowers, HUDSON continues to help athletes and crews pursue excellence on the water.

HUDSON also has strong ties to the London and rowing communities through its leadership and history. Current owners Craig McAllister ’92 and Glen Burston, BESc’93, P.Eng, MEng’02, are both Western alumni. Ownership of HUDSON later transitioned from the original founders to Craig, Glen, and Jon Beare ’96. Today, Craig and Glen are the company’s current owners. Jon Beare has since passed away.

HUDSON is inspired by one of nature’s most successful and enduring forms: the SHARK. Known for its power, precision, adaptability, and evolution, the SHARK reflects the mindset behind this approach to performance.

HUDSON approaches design with that same standard, combining technology and innovation with the demands of competitive rowing. At FISU Rowing 2026, where athletes from around the world will compete on an international stage, the SHARK brand reflects the same drive for speed, precision, and excellence that defines the championships.

HUDSON extends its impact across national team and international championship rowing. The company supports USRowing and Rowing Canada Aviron NextGen Under-19 and Under-23 National Team athletes with partnerships through 2028. HUDSON boats have competed at the highest levels of international competition, from Under-19 and Under-23 World Rowing Championships, to World Rowing Championships, to Olympic medals. At the 2025 World Rowing Under-19 and Under-23 Championships, Generation SHARK athletes earned medals across multiple events.

HUDSON’s athlete community also includes SHARK Team athlete Karissa Riley, a Western graduate from the Class of 2023, featured in the image. The SHARK Team is HUDSON’s sponsored athlete program. Photo courtesy of Rowing Canada Aviron.

As part of the championships experience, FISU athletes and coaches have the opportunity to take part in HUDSON factory tours. These exclusive tours will give participants behind-the-scenes looks at HUDSON boat design, innovation, craftsmanship, and the technology that supports high-performance racing. For athletes and coaches, the experience provides a unique opportunity to connect more deeply with the equipment used in competitive rowing while engaging directly with experts in rowing performance and shell development.

Please note that HUDSON factory tours are intended for event participants and are not open to the general public.

Thank you to HUDSON for supporting FISU Rowing 2026 and helping us welcome the world to London, Ontario.