St Mary’s, St Benedict’s shine at SA Schools rowing champs

The South African Schools Championships, in partnership with Rand Merchant Bank (RMB), once again showcased the pinnacle of school rowing in South Africa.

With 200 races over a three-day programme, this annual event for school rowers marks the end of the rowing season and offers young athletes an opportunity to experience fast-paced, competitive racing.

Held at the prestigious Roodeplaat Dam in Tshwane from the 1-3 March, the event drew over 5 500 spectators and featured more than 1500 athletes representing over 35 different schools across South Africa, as well as three Zimbabwean schools.

In a testament to their exceptional talent and dedication, St Benedict's College emerged as the overall Boys champions for the remarkable 30th year in a row, with 447 points. They were followed by King Edward VII High School with 256 points and St Alban's College with 234 points.

Meanwhile, in the Girls category, St Mary's School Waverley claimed the top spot with 413 points, followed by St Andrew's Girls School with 340 points and St Stithians Girls College with 242 points.

In the Mixed Schools Results, Somerset College secured the first position with 108 points, followed by St Dunstan's High School with 84 points and Peterhouse with 23 points.

Notable results were:

- The Girls 1st Quad victory by St Mary's School Waverley, stroked by Danelia Price-Hughes.

- The Girls 1st Coxed Fours triumph by St Mary's School Waverley, stroke by Danellia Pestana, setting a new record time.

- The Girls 1st Double Scull victory by St Mary's School Waverley, stroke by Danelia Price-Hughes.

- The Boys 1st Eights victory by St Benedict's College, stroked by Jake Riccardi.

- The Boys 1st Coxed Fours triumph by St Benedict's College, stroked by Matthew Jasson.

- The Boys 1st Coxless Fours victory by St Benedict's College, stroked by Zaid Dawoodjee.

Tiago Loureiro, head coach of the RMB national squad, says "The Championships serve as a platform for talented athletes to be identified for scholarships and the RMB National Squad, even to become future Olympians.”

"The South African Schools Championships exemplify the spirit of sportsmanship, dedication, and excellence,” said Michelle Kleer, head of the organising committee. "Congratulations to all the participants, schools, and sponsors for making this event a resounding success."

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