Rowing News

A massive congratulations to our incredible Sacred Heart College winter rowing crews on bringing a brilliant winter season to a close! The winter rowing program officially wrapped up on Saturday 5 September at the 2026 Saltwater Challenge, and our athletes made it a milestone day to remember. Held along the picturesque yet demanding stretch of the Maribyrnong River in Essendon, this annual endurance event tested grit, strategy and our signature SHC team spirit across a gruelling 4.5-kilometre coxed quad course.

The dedication began long before the sun even thought about rising. Departing Geelong at an eye-watering 4.45am, our rowers, coaches and supporters traded warm beds for frosty highways. Upon arrival in Essendon, the crews were greeted by crisp, winter weather conditions. Rather than letting the icy breeze dampen their spirits, the rowers locked in, showing mature self-management and exceptional teamwork as they unloaded gear, rigged their boats and prepared mentally for the task ahead.

For some, this day marked their very first regatta. Stepping up to compete at this level - especially on a long, winding river course requiring sharp navigation and steady endurance - is no small feat. The nervous energy on the riverbank quickly transformed into laser focus the moment oars hit the water. Guided by sharp coxswains and powered by steady, synchronous rhythm, every single crew pushed through the burn, manoeuvring the tricky bends of the Maribyrnong with impressive poise and determination.

Beyond the technical precision on the water, what truly shone through was the unshakeable camaraderie of the entire SHC squad. The bank was alive with cheers as boats crossed the finish line, and the shared triumph among rowers made every early alarm and frigid training session entirely worth it. From helping each other launch to celebrating together post-race, our rowers represented the college with pride, resilience and genuine joy. 

Thank you to the dedicated coaches, supportive parents, and tireless rowers who made this winter rowing season an overwhelming success. We cannot wait to see this momentum carry forward onto the water in the seasons ahead!