Competing in the PR2 women's single scull on the fourth day of the championships in Austria, the three-time Paralympian led her preliminary race from start to finish to claim the win and ensure her spot in Friday's A-final.

But it was the 38-year-old's winning time that had everyone talking as she crossed the line in nine minutes and 24 seconds.

The Canberra resident took the win over previous record holder and closest competitor, Netherlands' Annika Van Der Meer.

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Ross, who is chasing a spot at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, told Australian National University Boat Club social media page she was shocked and thrilled with the result.

"It's great to be back racing at a world championships and to have that first hit out," the three-time world champion said in the post.

"I wasn't aiming for the world's best time but it's really exciting to have gotten it with this being only the second year of the event running.

"I'm sure the competition will step up again on Friday in the A-final, I'm looking forward to it."

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