A PARA-ATHLETE has died, aged 33, after capsizing during practice for the World Rowing Championships in Austria.

Shortly after 1pm in Ottensheim, the Belarusian star capsized his boat - with onlooking staff unable to help.

3 A para-athlete, 33, has died in practice for Sunday's World Rowing Championships Credit: Matthias Lauber

The as-yet unnamed athlete was recovered from the water three hours later having been trapped under the boom on his boat.

Local reports claim the accident occurred 20 minutes into the training session in "normal weather conditions".

A police statement read: "Shortly after 1pm, a Belarusian para-rower capsized on the regatta course.

"Lifeguards of the fire brigade watched the whole thing - they were also on the water."

The entire regatta course was swiftly cordoned off by police, with only members of the fire brigade given access.

3 Austrian police reported that the rower capsized on the regatta course Credit: Matthias Lauber

3 The incident happened 20 minutes into the session with 'normal' weather conditions Credit: Matthias Lauber

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Reports claim the boats for para-athletes are fitted with a "float" - designed to prevent the boat from capsizing.

The World Rowing Championships are set to officially kick off on Sunday, August 25 for a week.

No official statement has yet been made by World Rowing outside Wednesday's incident.