Brisbane Schoolgirl Rowing Association Head of the River 2020: Stuartholme School
The Stuartholme rowers and boatshed helpers were “stoked” as school crews prepare for the famous Head of the River rowing regatta later this month.
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The Stuartholme School rowers and boatshed helpers were “stoked” as crews prepare for the famous Head of the River rowing regatta later this month.
As the Brisbane Schoolgirl Rowing Association season heads towards its August 29 gala conclusion, the girls couldn’t be happier, grateful to simply have a competition after earlier concerns about the COVID-19 crisis.
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“When the season was announced to continue, our girls were stoked,” Stuartholme Rowing Director Emma McCarthy said.
“They have done a great job in getting stuck in, knowing there is limited time to select crews and combine athletes to make their boat go the fastest within just a few weeks.
“We also have a few new girls this year, so it’s been great to see their rapid improvements.
“And a return to routine has had a great impact on the girls’ wellbeing and schoolwork, as well as the coaches, so we’re all happy to be back doing what we love.”
While the Head of the River on August 29 will be contested without spectators, it has done little to dampen the spirits at Stuartholme.
BSRA officials made the tough call to go on without spectators which robs the gala carnival atmosphere on Head of the River day, but there would still be commentary and presentations, both time-honoured traditions.
“Stuartholme Rowing has an unquestionable sense of school spirit,” McCarthy said.
“There is no mistaking the red and yellow on the water, which the girls wear with pride.
“The boatshed is seen as the girls’ home away from home, where their fellow rowers become their sisters. There’s been a great vibe at the boatshed.”
The rowing director reported a direct correlation between school performance and general wellbeing with fundamental sports like rowing.
“Whatever the results are at Head of River, I’m really proud of the way the girls have come together and are happy to go with the flow and give it their best effort,” she said.
“Rowing is really beneficial for these girls – it teaches them resilience, discipline, commitment and unwavering team work.
“It puts them in a great position for their future employability and life outside of sport.
“I’m really proud of the Stuartholme girls, not just as athletes, but as people.
“They’re always willing to help each other with their equipment, share their experience, motivate each other and welcome new rowers.
“They’re all keen to be the best they can be and leave no stone unturned.”
Stuartholme School last won Head of the River in 2018.