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Schools Boat Race. The SASRU BOAT RACE takes place on a suitable Saturday as close to the first weekend, as possible in December. This falls early in the school holidays of all provincial and independent schools – towards the middle of the South African rowing season when schools’ should be nearing the end of the endurance-training and strength-training part of the season, before the 2000m sprints season which culminates in the Schools’ Rowing Championships in March. Seventeen Schools are participating at the 2024 Schools Boat Race taking place on 6 and 7 December on the Kowie River in Port Alfred, Eastern Cape for schools’ First Eights and First Quads.
Meet the crews:
St Mary’s School, Waverley:
St Mary’s School has been an unstoppable force in the Junior Women’s category, clinching 1st place last year. This Johannesburg-based school is renowned for its commitment to excellence in sport, and their rowing crew is no exception. With a strong legacy of success, the crew is ready to defend their title and take on the competition at the South African Schools Boat Race. Can they continue their dominance in 2024? We’ll find out soon!
St Alban’s College:
This team who finished in 8th place last year, returns to the Kowie River with renewed focus and determination. Known for their competitive spirit and strong rowing programme, this Pretoria-based school is looking to move up the rankings and make their mark in 2024. Can they climb the ladder and challenge for a top spot? Let’s see what this talented crew has in store!
Selborne College:
Selborne College finished in 14th place last year, and this East London-based crew is determined to push past their previous result. Known for their strong history in sport, Selborne is focused on improving and challenging the competition at the South African Schools Boat Race. Can they break through and earn a higher spot in 2024? Let’s see what they’ve got!
SACS:
The SACS boys’ crew earned 7th place last year and is back to build on that performance. As Cape Town’s oldest high school, SACS has a long history of excellence in academics, culture, and sport, with rowing being a significant part of their tradition. This crew is ready to power through the Kowie River and make their school proud. Will they improve their position in 2024?
Rondebosch Boys’ High School:
Finishing 4th in last year’s race, Rondebosch Boys’ High School showed their strength on the water. Hailing from Cape Town, this team is known for their resilience and competitive spirit, always pushing boundaries to achieve their goals. With a spot on the podium within reach, this crew is determined to deliver a standout performance. Will 2024 be their year?
Umtata High School:
Umtata High School, which joined the event for the first time last year, finished in 12th place. They are still in the early stages of rowing but are showing immense potential. With plenty of room to grow, Umtata High is determined to continue improving and push for a better result in 2024. Don’t miss Umtata in action on 6 and 7 December.
King Edward VII School (KES):
King Edward VII School (KES) put up a strong effort in 2023, finishing in 10th place. Based in Johannesburg, this school’s rich history of sporting achievement drives the crew to continually push the limits of their potential. Can KES rise higher this year and show their true strength on the water? We’ll be watching closely! Cheer on KES on 6 and 7 December.
St Andrew’s College:
Hosts of the South African Schools Boat Race, St Andrew’s College, secured a fantastic 3rd place finish last year and are ready to race on their home waters again. Based in Makhanda, the school is deeply rooted in rowing tradition, and their crew exemplifies the spirit of the sport. Can they use the home-course advantage to climb even higher this year? Let’s show our support for the hosts! Be sure to cheer for St Andrew’s on 6 and 7 December.
Somerset College Boys:
Finishing 16th last year, Somerset College is back, ready to continue developing and pushing for a stronger result in 2024. This crew from the Western Cape has shown impressive growth in the sport and is eager to make strides this year. Can Somerset break through the ranks and make a powerful impression this year? Let’s watch! Catch Somerset in action on 6 and 7 December.
Somerset College Girls:
Somerset College finished 5th place last year and is back with a renewed sense of determination. Known for their strong technical skills and hard work, they are eager to improve on their standing and challenge the top contenders in 2024. Will Somerset College climb higher this year? Cheer for Somerset College.
St Stithians College Girls:
St Stithians Girls’ College finished 3rd place last year and are returning to improve their standing. With a dedicated crew and a history of strong performances, they’re aiming to secure a spot at the top of the leaderboard in 2024. Can St Stithians challenge for the win this year? Watch St Stithians race on 6 and 7 December.
Grey High School:
Finishing in 11th place last year, Grey High School is no stranger to fierce competition. Based in Gqeberha, this school’s rowing programme is filled with determination, and they are gearing up for another exciting race in 2024. With a solid crew and a clear goal to improve, Grey is ready to make waves at the South African Schools Boat Race! Support Grey on 6 and 7 December.
St Stithians College:
After an impressive 2nd place finish last year, the St Stithians boys’ crew is eager to return to the Kowie River and chase the top spot! With their dedication and teamwork, they’re ready to make waves and take on the challenge in Port Alfred. Be there to cheer them.
Clarendon High School:
Clarendon High School, based in East London, finished 7th place last year. With a strong crew and a deep commitment to rowing, they are back in 2024 with the goal of improving their performance and challenging for a higher finish. Can Clarendon rise in the rankings this year? Support them on 6 and 7 December.
Diocesan School for Girls (DSG):
Based in Grahamstown, they finished 10th place last year. DSG made a triumphant return last year, and we’re excited to see them taking on the Kowie River once more. Support them.
Buffalo Rowing Club:
Buffalo Rowing Club, based in East London, did not compete in last year’s event, but they are back with a fresh, young crew ready to make their mark in 2024. Training on the Buffalo River, this team has been building their skills and determination to take on the competition. As a young crew, they are focused on growth and pushing themselves to new heights. The future looks bright for Buffalo Rowing Club!
Assumtion Convent School Germiston:
Assumption Convent finished 6th place last year and is returning to the South African Schools Boat Race with their sights set on improvement. This Gauteng-based crew is known for their grit and determination and is focused on moving up the ranks. Can Assumption Convent challenge for a higher finish this year? Don’t miss them in action.
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