Warwick Student Wins Medals at US Rowing Indoor Nationals

Sophomore Stephan Kitar brings home gold, silver, and bronze from prestigious competition.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Stephan Kitar, a 15-year-old sophomore and captain of the Warwick Valley High School boys' rowing team, earned three medals at the 2026 USRowing Indoor National Championships in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Competing in the Youth 17 Division, Kitar won gold in the 1-minute sprint, silver in the 500-meter race, and bronze in the 2,000-meter endurance event.

Why it matters

Kitar's impressive performance at the national level highlights the growth and success of the Warwick Valley High School rowing program, which has produced a top youth rower despite being a smaller school district. His medals demonstrate the dedication of the school's athletes and coaches, and could inspire more students to join the program.

The details

Kitar raced in three individual events, facing top youth rowers from across the country. In the 2,000-meter race, considered the ultimate test of endurance, he secured bronze. His strongest showing came in the 1-minute sprint, where he outpaced the competition to earn gold. Kitar also took silver in the 500-meter event, leading much of the race before being edged at the finish.

  • The 2026 USRowing Indoor National Championships were held last weekend in Chattanooga, Tennessee.
  • Kitar, who is 15 years old, competed in the Youth 17 Division.

The players

Stephan Kitar

A sophomore at Warwick Valley High School and captain of the boys' rowing team, Kitar earned gold, silver, and bronze medals at the 2026 USRowing Indoor National Championships.

Warwick Valley High School

The high school Kitar attends, which has a growing rowing program that has produced a top youth rower in the country.

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What they’re saying

“I'm really thankful for my coaches and everyone who's helped build the rowing program at Warwick. They've pushed me to be better every day and made it possible for me to compete nationally. I hope my experience encourages more students to try rowing and helps the program keep growing, so one day we can participate at events like this as a team.”

— Stephan Kitar (Warwick Dispatch)

What’s next

Kitar, as a sophomore, has multiple seasons ahead of him to continue competing at the national level and potentially lead the Warwick Valley High School rowing team to future success.

The takeaway

Stephan Kitar's impressive performance at the 2026 USRowing Indoor National Championships demonstrates the growth and potential of the Warwick Valley High School rowing program, and could inspire more students to get involved in the sport.