A squad of 17 rowers sported the Black and Gold Checkers of Wanaka Rowing Club at last weekend’s 2025 Meridian Otago Championships which hosted 1208 rowers on Lake Ruataniwha.
The weekend’s near perfect weather provided stunning water conditions and many highlights and firsts for young rowers.
McKenzie Hay and Jasper Lambert nailed the challenge of racing a single boat for the first time. The 3 bigger quad boats of Mens novice coxed quad skulls, and U17 Coxed girls skulls both made good progress in A finals, setting the benchmark for growth and improvement for the next 3 months and the fabulous conditions gave many new double combinations an opportunity to race together for the first time. Master rowers/coaches Matt Rickard and AJ Humphreys also took to the water with Philip Massey Assistant Coach lending his expertise in the boat park.
The club has a busy January ahead, fundraising at many local events and returning to Twizel for Canterbury Champs 17th & 18th January and South Island Champs 31 January 1st February. Tracey Pedersen, Junior Regatta Co-ordinator invites anyone keen to come along during the holidays to watch some fabulous racing ….. entry is free, pack a picnic (although food and beverage options available on site), a hat and a deck chair! It’s an easy day trip, and great entertainment for all the family.
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