On Monday 7 January, 68 boys arrived at Port Alfred for the annual rowing camp. The rowing club welcomed a record intake of 19 enthusiastic new boys, which shows an amazing level of interest in the sport. Three assistant coaches were allocated to these boys and they did a fantastic job of teaching the skills of sculling to them. After 5 days, they then took part in a friendly race against Grey High new boys over a distance of approximately 500 metres. St. Andrew’s won one race and came second to slightly older boys in the other final.
At the beginning of the camp, the Chairman of the Parent’s Committee presented the Club with two brand new boats, an eight and a pair made by Filippi of Donoratico, Italy. These boats are world class craft and the financial support that the parents have shown to the club has been stunning. To see our boys take to the water in such a craft was breathtaking. The other significant addition of equipment was the presentation of an octuple to the junior oarsmen, the octuple being an eight that has been converted to a sculling boat, which means two blades per oarsman instead of one. This octuple has been a dream of supporters for many years, that has now become a reality. St. Andrew’s is the first non-Gauteng rowing school to possess such a craft. It is expected that other schools in the Cape will soon follow our example, so that by next season octuple races will also be offered locally.
Amongst the older age groups, the Under 16A VIII have responded very well under a new coach and we are fortunate to have the services of Rory MacLeod to coach our 2nd VIII. Rory has joined College as a stooge and has an impressive rowing background. The 1st VIII also returned to camp with great vigour, and have shown great commitment to their fitness during the holidays. It is evident from their approach that they have a score that they intend to settle.
The camp has been a great success and the Club looks set to continue its winning ways when racing begins again in February. Thanks go to all involved with the organisation of this camp, particularly the assistant coaches, Mrs. Hobson, Mr. Strydom, Mr. Joubert and Mr. Paterson.
