There are a number of Orana students whose day commences most likely at 4:30am. Time for a bowl of porridge before heading out to the Lake for rowing training. The season concluded last weekend with the Head of the River Regatta in Penrith where girls and boys crews raced very competitively. For the many rowers it was the first time at this Olympic course, and first time rowing a 2km race. Our rowers were competitive, hungry to achieve personal best times, and well prepared.
- Jack Grose, was our only rower with the courage to row in a singles event. Jack rowed with real grace and class.
- Oliver Manning and Reuben Hjort won a silver medal in the School Boys Double Scull event. This was a magnificent race and congratulations on such a wonderful result.
- Amy Manning, Zoe Wiseman, Nina Thomas, Eleanor Johnstone, with cox Mannon Castro finished 5th in the School Girls Coxed Quad final with a wonderful improvement in time from the heat. This was a very hot finals race and the girls were very competitive.
- Maya Skocilas and Mannon Castro rowed their fastest ever time to reach the final of the Year 9 Double Scull. This is a major achievement and I know the girls were thrilled with their time and the way the boat sat in the water.
- Meg Jacey, Niamh Lejeune, Jess Newham, Arabella Toms, coxed by Amy Manning rowed a personal best time. This was the first time these girls had rowed on this course and I understand some new goals have been set for next season.
- Joss Ormes, Judah Card, Odin Morris-Barrow, Tom Wiseman, coxed by Maya Skocilas narrowly missed out on a finals birth in the Year 8 Quad Scull but rowed a very tidy race.
Congratulations to all rowers and crews. This is a major event on a large stage. Thanks must go to Mike Brady for the hours he has invested in early morning and afternoon trainings, and coordinating the various regattas over the season. I would also like to thank the parents for the time invested in getting these young athletes to training and Sydney events. Rowing is a wonderful sport and a skill these students can use throughout life. The students will be able to join any rowing shed around the world, meet new friends and join new communities. Again, my congratulations to all Orana Rowers.
Susan Pascoe
