Rowing with Olympic Spirit - NSW State Championships

Somerset College Rowing has taken on the NSW State Championships, gaining some Olympic spirit.

In the pursuit of excellence, the Somerset College Rowing programme selected a Spartan Squad and headed to the NSW State Rowing Championships in Penrith on the weekend of 9 to 11 February. For athletes it was their first opportunity to compete at the Olympic venue and mix with Australian Representatives and World Champions. With over 60 schools competing from across Australia, it was the second largest regatta in Australia behind the National Championships.

The Spartan Squad exhibited remarkable prowess throughout the Championships, with several personal achievements highlighting their dedication and training. The team strived for personal best performances in various categories, showing the effectiveness of their training. For four months athletes have monitored their heart rate in training, increased the volume of work each week and rehearsed their race plan. A highlight was the Under 17 Women’s Quad that drew the toughest of heats and were narrowly beaten in their heat by two of the crews that would go on to medal.

Somerset College's Rowing programme places a strong emphasis on teamwork and dedication, and these values were on full display during the NSW State Rowing Championships. The athletes demonstrated not only their individual skills but also their ability to work seamlessly as a unit, a crucial element in the sport of rowing. The camaraderie and mutual support within the team were evident, contributing to their success on the water.

As the Spartan Squad relay their experience from the NSW State Rowing Championships and the excitement of seeing the sport at its highest level, the focus now shifts to the local competition and lifting the standard in the South Queensland Schools Conference. The motivation is there to build on this momentum, bring in new rowers, find success at the Trophy regatta in June and strive to become School State Champions in September, when the Spartans will head to Rockhampton to take on the rest of the State.