Christmas Message from the CEO

Merry Christmas from Rowing Victoria 
 
On behalf of the staff and Board at Rowing Victoria, I would like to wish the Victorian rowing community, family, and friends a very merry and safe Christmas.
 
I’m sure we can all agree, the end of 2021 cannot come soon enough. Despite the superb performances of our Olympians and Para Olympians, it’s been a pretty tough year and one that I’m definitely looking forward to closing. Our Olympians and Para Olympians however certainly demonstrated what can be achieved when we work together to overcome whatever hurdles are thrown in our path.
 
With all that COVID has thrown at us to date, we were able to work together and develop solutions, ensuring we could continue to optimise the training and racing opportunities available. This resulted in athletes able to complete virtually unhindered at our featured regattas including Wendouree Ballarat, the Head of the School Girls, Head of the River, State Championships and Nationals where, as previously documented, there were some astounding results. Through the winter, we were able to provide opportunities for our elite to prepare for Tokyo, and we then followed that up with providing uninterrupted training opportunities for our Pathway athletes which has set them up for the season and ideally representative opportunities ahead.
 
Although we lost some early season races and the traditional early season head races needed to be adapted to meet COVID restrictions, the community pivoted, and we were able to provide racing opportunities for all Victorians. Our schools have returned with increased numbers and many large programs for what looks like a positive resurgence in overall participation and ultimately competition. With some grade changes being trialled and new events added to our regatta program, the balance of the season for all competitors looks really encouraging.
 
I’d like to especially thank all those volunteers both front and centre in our sport and behind the scenes. Be those our regatta Umpires, regatta hosts, club committee members, boat drivers, boat holders, canteen staff, parent/ school support groups and coaches; your tireless efforts are central to the fabric of our sport and they enable the athletes to be the best they can be. I’d like to also call out the RV Board for their tireless efforts and the Umpires and Competition Commission members who, with their extensive experience help support and drive the sport through the state.
 
With 2021 shortly behind us, let’s hope that 2022 provides all that we are looking for both on and off the water. I’ve no doubt there will be a few bumps along the way, but as 2021 has shown us, we as Victorians can overcome pretty much anything that’s thrown at us.
 
So, let’s enjoy the festive season and be safe.
 
I look forward to seeing you for what will be a great 2022.
 
Best Wishes, Ian