The river is calling: Varsity rowing's next generation ready to make waves

The upcoming RMB Universities' Boat Race on the Kowie River in September promises to be a thrilling showdown of South Africa's top rowing talent. Ten universities will compete fiercely for supremacy on the water, with old rivalries and new rivalries set to emerge. Cape Town, Fort Hare, Johannesburg, Nelson Mandela, Pretoria, Rhodes, Stellenbosch, Walter Sisulu, the Western Cape and Wits all have their sights set on victory.

UCAT's men, the reigning champions, return to defend their title, while Tuks will be aiming to extend their impressive streak in the women's race. This year, Tuks will have the added advantage of two rowers who have recently competed at the highest level of international competition. These rowers, Courtney Westley and Katherine Williams, bring a wealth of experience and determination to the team.

The success of South African rowing at the international level is closely tied to the development of elite athletes at the school and university level. Olympians such as Paige Badenhorst and Christopher Baxter are just a few examples of the many athletes who began their journey in university rowing. Former gold medallist Sizwe Ndlovu, who now coaches at UJ, and four-time Olympian John Smith, who has established the Go for Gold Foundation, both highlight the importance of ongoing support for gifted rowers throughout their careers.

With 60% of the competitors in this year's race being first-time participants, the upcoming showdown promises to be a true display of youthful ambition and potential. As RMB Sponsorship Marketing Lead Michael Edwards asks, "Will we be watching some of our future Olympians on the Kowie River this September?" One thing is for certain: the Kowie River will be calling to the next generation of South African rowing stars.