What’s the real key to TSS rowing success?

Early morning starts, hours spent in the gym and pre-race nerves can bring out the worst in rowers but the TSS First VIII’s incredible bond is set to overcome all obstacles.

NOTHING is more important in rowing that camaraderie.

Early morning starts, hours spent in the gym and pre-race nerves can bring out the worst in rowers but the TSS First VIII’s incredible bond is set to overcome all obstacles.

“All the other boys I’ve been rowing with over the years have also made the First VIII this year so we’ve bonded a lot by being able to row four or five seasons together,” fourth seat Sam Gibson said.

“The connection we have from our experiences really ties us together which is a really important part of rowing.

“Some of my best friends are in the crew.”

TSS Rowing 8 Left to right: Lockie Mactaggart, Harrison French, Lachie Wright, Mackenzie Branch, Josh Hobart, Max Cossill, Sam Gibson, Charlie Cox and Zac Botsman Photograph : Jason O'Brien

Sam Gibson, like many of the First VIII crews, started rowing in year seven.

“I’ve been at TSS since the very start since prep school and rowing has always been a big part of the school and its culture,” he said.

“I’ve grown up watching the old boys and a few family friends before me which developed my interest and my father also did it when he was at school.”

TSS ROWER’S RAPID RISE

Gibson excelled at the sport and has made every first crew since he started which now includes the schools most prestigious boat.

“It’s pretty amazing to be one of those names up on the board now,” he said.

“To be a part of it is pretty incredible and an amazing experience.”

After watching the TSS First VIII cross the line first last year, Gibson has dreamt of achieving the same.

“We were right on the water’s edge to watch them cross the line was great to watch,” he said.

“It’s a big motivator for us this year because we want to experience the joy they did so that’s driving us.”

When not rowing, Gibson represents TSS in rugby though it’s the summer sport that emerges as favourite.

“They’re both very different and I have a love-hate relationship with both but I have to say that after a few years, rowing probably has the biggest spot in my heart,” he said.

“The discipline behind it really helps in everyday life as well as in the future.”

TSS FIRST VIII BOUNCE BACK AFTER PLACING FIFTH IN PREVIOUS REGATTA

Gibson, who was part of the TSS quad which won gold at the 2017 nationals, said that his crew is constantly improving as head of the river fast approaches.

“We’re going to stick to our game plan and continue listening to our coaches,” he said.

“The last few weeks we have been improving so as long as we stick to our plan I’m sure we’ll be fine come head of the river.”

All schools have this weekend off before returning to Wyaralong Rowing Centre on February 23 for the third GPS regatta of the season.