Grant Callaghan moved from Scotland to Australia when he was seven and is this year representing the TSS First VIII rowing crew

At first, Grant Callaghan used rowing as a way to get fit for the rugby season.

AT first, Grant Callaghan used rowing as a way to get fit for the rugby season.

Now, it’s one of his biggest passions.

The 17-year-old first started rowing in year seven after he and his family moved to Australia from Scotland.

TSS Rowing First VIII Representative Grant Callaghan. Photograph: Jason O'Brien

Flying the flag as the first rower in his family, Callaghan transferred to The Southport School in year nine and this year takes his place in the elusive First VIII.

“Rugby was my families main sport,” the four seat rower said.

“It’s a bit cold and windy to row in Scotland.

“My favourite sport was rugby but I watched the senior rowers and saw how fit they were.

“So I initially took up rowing to get fit for the rugby season.

“Very quickly rowing became a passion.

“The fun and the camaraderie of rowing had me hooked.”

MEET THE MAN BEHIND TSS HOR TITLE PUSH

Starting out in the year 9 first quad, Callaghan has maintained his perfect record of representing first crews throughout his secondary education.

Making memories over his four years in the TSS rowing shed has all been part of the journey with one of his most memorable moments coming earlier this year while training in fours at Wyaralong dam.

“The water got so rough that the interior of the boat filled up with water which caused the boats to start sinking,” Callaghan said.

“We had to row pretty fast to make sure the boat didn’t sink.

“Unfortunately the other boat didn’t make it and we had to drag it to shore.”

SUDDEN HOSPITALISATION WON’T HALT TSS TITLE CHARGE

After a drama filled weekend last week, which saw the First VIII crew undergo a last seat reshuffle due to Mackenzie Branch’s absence, Callaghan said the coming regatta was all about continuing to remain flexible.

“Last week I saw the crews performance as a step in the right direction as with new combinations it’s good to see how we can perform,” he said.

“There are however several little things that as a crew we are constantly trying to perfect.

“No one is invincible and we know that if we are consistent with our physical and technical efforts then our trust in the process that Cameron’s has set us will give us the best opportunity the peak on the big day.”

The third GPS rowing regatta commences at 8am tomorrow at Wyaralong Dam.