The CRC 2024 Para Head of the Yarra Crew raced in this year’s event on 23 November 2024, sweating through an oppressive 34+ degree day to complete the 8km+ time-trial event. Representing the heart and spirit of our club, this talented team—Ollie, Kat, Jack, James, Lauren, Sam, Ellie, Matilda, and their dedicated coxswain, Jacky Piele from St George Rowing Club took on the iconic Yarra course with determination and skill.
For those who may not be familiar, the Head of the Yarra River Regatta is one of Australia’s premier long-distance rowing events. Stretching over more than 8 kilometers, it offers a thrilling and challenging course that weaves through the scenic Yarra River from Hawthorn to the heart of Melbourne. Known for its demanding twists and turns, the regatta draws rowers from all over the country, with a reputation as a true test of endurance, precision, and teamwork. It’s an exhilarating race where every stroke counts, and rowers need to be at their best to navigate the tight bends and narrow passages.
The Community Rowing Club is proud to see our para crew competing on such a grand stage. Our club has always championed inclusivity, camaraderie, and the empowerment that rowing brings to people of all abilities. This team embodies our values, showing resilience and passion in every training session and race. The Head of the Yarra marks a significant milestone for our para rowers, who have trained tirelessly to reach this point and inspire us all with their dedication and teamwork.
This year, the conditions were a significant challenge to the crew, and it was somewhat surprising the regatta was only called off in the last few events given the significant impact the heat had on all competitors. Our crew ultimately achieved second in the para category to a composite crew of fantastic colleagues from a number of clubs around Australia, and given the conditions, both crews performed extremely well. We are immensely proud of our crew and the dedication they showed throughout the race, however the safety of all rowers is the most important factor of all.
We look forward to next year, and hopefully a safer and smoother regatta to reward the significant training of all of the crew!