The South African RMB National Rowing Squad recently showcased their talent and determination at the 3rd Rowing World Cup in Lucerne, Switzerland, held from the 7th to the 9th of July 2023.
This prestigious event featured a staggering 165 races over the course of three days, attracting rowing teams from across the globe. South Africa was proudly represented by six exceptional athletes, each demonstrating their skills on the international stage.
Adriaan Venter, making his debut at the international level, delivered impressive performances in the Men’s Single Scull. In Heat 5 on Day 1, he finished 4th with a remarkable time of 7:09:38. Continuing his strong showing, Venter competed in Final F on Day 2, securing a 5th place finish with a time of 7:07.94. His consistent efforts earned him a commendable 35th out of 48 participants in the event.
In the Men’s Pair race, James Mitchell and Chris Baxter showcased their prowess. They claimed a respectable 4th position in Heat 5 on Day 1, crossing the finish line with a time of 6:39.94. Only hours later, they once again displayed their determination in Quarterfinal 3, finishing 4th with an impressive time of 6:29.45. Their outstanding performance secured them a spot in Final C on Day 2, where they clinched 2nd place with a time of 6:39.41. Overall, Mitchell and Baxter achieved a remarkable 14th place out of 17 teams in the event.
The Women’s Double Scull featured the talented duo of Katherine Williams and Paige Badenhorst representing TeamSA. In Heat 1 on Day 1, they exhibited their speed and skill, securing a 5th place finish with a swift time of 7:07.41. Undeterred, they returned to the water for the Repechage 2 race, where they again impressed with a 4th place finish and a time of 6:58.89. Day 2 saw them competing in the C Final, where they secured 2nd place with a time of 7:07.20. Their exceptional performance earned them an overall 14th place in the event.
Murray Bales-Smith demonstrated his talent in the Lightweight Men’s Single Scull. In Heat 1 on Day 1, he finished 4th with a time of 7:09.38. Continuing his pursuit of excellence, Bales-Smith participated in the Repechage 2 race later that day, securing another 4th place finish with a time of 6:56.93. On Day 2, he competed in the C Final, achieving a commendable 3rd place with a time of 7:16.14. Bales-Smith concluded the event in a solid 15th position overall.
These international competitions provide invaluable exposure for South African athletes, allowing them to compete against the best in the world and raising the overall standards of rowing in the country. As the RMB National Rowing Squad sets its sights on qualifying for the 2024 Olympics in Paris, these events serve as crucial preparation opportunities to enhance their skills and readiness.
The squad continues to work diligently and train rigorously behind the scenes as they gear up for the Olympic qualification event in September, which will take place in Belgrade, Serbia. Reflecting on their performance, RowSA took to their Facebook page to express gratitude for the tremendous efforts of each team member and extend appreciation to their sponsors and supporters. To learn more about their journey, visit their page https://rowsa.co.za/
