In the men's category, Orio has secured victories in the Gipuzkoa, Basque Country, and Spanish Championships in recent weeks, reiterating their 2025 dominance. The signing of coach Iker Zabala has significantly contributed to their record, positioning them as strong favorites for the Eusko Label Liga and the Bandera de La Concha.
However, Orio's impressive performance sparks two areas of discussion. Firstly, the fact that the club has won everything with only one homegrown rower, Mikel Lizarralde, raises questions about whether it alters the club's historical identity. Secondly, at the Olympic-style Spanish Championship held in Legutio, where Sevillako Nautico, Hondarribia, and Sevillako Labradores reached the podium, Orio's men's crew did not participate, despite the championship being held in the Basque Country.
Meanwhile, following last year's ups and downs, the women's crew of Orio has embarked on a new phase under the guidance of new coach Xanti Zabaleta. Zumaia concluded last year in a commendable fourth place in the Euskotren liga and fifth in La Concha. This year, the Saregileen crew has promoted seven U18 rowers to the first team, under the direction of coach Kike Manterola.
Looking towards the KAE1 league, the Telmo Deun traineru could be a strong contender for promotion, led by Mikel Portularrume and his team. Getariako Arraun Elkartea celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, having achieved bronze in the Gipuzkoa Championship and fourth place in the Basque Country Championship, surpassing Zierbena and Bermeo. Jon Larrañaga Isasti is the primary figure behind this rise, transforming Getaria into a solid Eusko Label Liga team.
Finally, regarding Zarautz, it would be a dream for both the women's and men's traineras to qualify for the promotion play-off, and even more so to ascend together to the Euskotren and Eusko Label leagues. Despite the challenging nature of this goal, it is hoped that the Zarautz Enbatas will continue to show their fighting spirit.
