Maadi, is the pinnacle of school rowing. Held at Lake Ruatuniwha in Twizel, it represents a monumental challenge for both managers, coaches, parents and SBHS rowers. With over 2200 athletes from 130 schools from around New Zealand, it is one of the largest events in Secondary School sport. With the current COVID restrictions in place, and with a number of events being cancelled through the country, there was genuine concern that the regatta would be cancelled. New Zealand Rowing worked hard with schools, working within the restrictions, to find a way to host the event. In order to reduce numbers, the event was restricted to senior crews only. A final squad of 22 was selected from the school squad. Travelling with them was a small army of coaches, managers and parents to support them through the competition.

The crews competed over eight days in heats, repecharges, quarter and semi-finals with the aim of making finals day on Friday and Saturday.

All SBHS crews competed well through the week, with several progressing into the finals. Two crews were able to qualify for the “B” final of their race (top 16) with a further two crews qualifying for “A” finals – placing them in the top eight in New Zealand and providing a chance to win a National title.  

“Top 16” results were;

12th Under 16 Coxed Quad Sculls: Charlie Hamilton, Hamish McIntosh, Charlie Norton, Flynn Hutchison-Ray, Albie Eden, Ollie Eden, Keegan Piper + Daniel Kara

9th Under 17 Double Sculls: Sam Clarke, Tim Chapman

7th Under 17 Coxed Eight: Tim Chapman, Joel Arona, Oliver Ellis, Liam Collins, Sam Clarke, Noa Visser, Hamish McIntosh, Lachie Kendrick + Jack Savage

6th Under 17 Coxed Quad: Tim Chapman, Oliver Ellis, Liam Collins, Sam Clarke + Jack Savage

While disappointed not to come away with a National medal, there were several strong performances through the regatta. The performance of the Under 17 group, placing in the “top ten” in three events, illustrates the great potential and range this group has. Of particular note was the Under 17 Quad and Eight showing great fight during the week to qualify for the national final against older and bigger crews.

The achievements of the entire row squad throughout the season would not have been possible without the tireless work of the coaches. Their key goal was to develop young men both on and off the water through rowing. To this end, the season was a great success. Their continued dedication to the boys and the sport can only but be admired.

No army can function without it’s support. In the parent group, we were extremely fortunate to have a large group to transport boats, organise and feed the boys, supervise houses and provided endless support for all the boats and crews throughout the season. Rowing takes great commitment. This not only comes from the crews but also from the parents. Without the support of all the families, behind the squad, SBHS Rowing would not be able to function, nor would it be in the strong position that it finds itself. We now begin to build and prepare the squad for the 2022-2023 season. 

 If your son is interested in becoming part of the row squad, please contact Rob Wilson-Pyne at email rnw@shirley.school.nz