Congratulations to our two Senior VIII Crews at the Australian Open Schools Rowing Championships in Sydney. Our Boynton Crew won Bronze in the Schoolgirls Coxed VIII Sprint Final and our Geraldine Ilott Crew came first place, wining Gold in the Schoolgirls Coxed VIII, Sydney Cup A Final.

THE BOYNTON

In the first ever National Sprint Championships, held over 500ms. The Boynton recorded the first ever national medal to be awarded to a St Catherine’s School second VIII.

“The Boynton had a fantastic week, seeing their best racing. During their heat and repechage they were just over a second from qualifying from the A/B semi finals and took the scalps of first VIIIs from around the country. They then showed their true character by racing with only seven rowers in the C Final due to injury. In the C final, with seven rowers they held contact with the field for 1500ms before only losing a handful of seconds to the other crews. All the girls supported each other and put out their best efforts which we are very proud of. This was an amazing campaign for the Boynton.”

THE GERALDINE

For the first time in history, St Catherine’s School are the National Champions of the Schoolgirl Coxed VIII of Australia. Winners of the trophy named the Sydney Cup.

“Throughout the week the Geraldine had their best efforts on display. The regatta centre was talking about their intensity off the start, as well as the excitement they generate as a crew. They won their heat in style, then progressed to be beaten in their semi-final to come second and qualify for the A Final. However the girls of the Geraldine, as well as the coaches, knew they were ready for the peak performance in the Final. The girls prepared themselves absolutely and were ready to race mentally, physically, technically and tactically. They blasted off the start to an early lead which they held for the full race, racing with pride, despite late challenges from silver and bronze medal winning crews.”

“These efforts and accomplishments have been a team effort. The St Catherine’s School students demonstrated our School values in every respect. The coaches demonstrated coaching capability, care and respect for the students at all times. The parents were an amazing support for the girls, giving us space when we needed while being the loudest supporters on the river bank and throughout Penrith.”

Our Boynton Crew won Bronze in the Schoolgirls Coxed VIII Sprint Final and our Geraldine Ilott Crew came first place, wining Gold in the Schoolgirls Coxed VIII, Sydney Cup A Final.