For his outstanding athletic achievements, dedicated coaching, mentorship of future rowers and coaches, and tireless service to the Club, the Wellington Rowing Club proudly awarded Life Membership to Jason Theobald at the AGM 2025.

Jason Theobald began his rowing journey in November 2004 with Hamilton Rowing Club, following a successful background as a competitive 5000m runner.

His endurance and athleticism from running gave him a formidable “engine” for a newcomer to rowing, propelling him into Hamilton’s senior crews by just his second season. Over the next eight years, Jason competed with distinction, securing multiple wins and podium finishes at national level events.

In 2012, Jason moved to Wellington and joined Wellington Rowing Club. Over the past 13 years, he has contributed to the Club not only as an exceptional athlete, but also as a meticulous and methodical coach, a mentor to others, and a tireless worker behind the scenes.

As an athlete, Jason’s technical skill, discipline, and unwavering commitment have set an impressive benchmark for our adult squads. His dedication is evident in every training session and race, inspiring his teammates and lifting the performance of those around him.

Jason’s desire to contribute has always extended beyond his own rowing. Soon after arriving at Wellington Rowing Club, he began coaching at St Patrick’s College, later also coaching at Onslow College. In both roles, he was instrumental in developing new rowers’ technical skills and instilling in them a lasting passion for the sport. Crews under Jason’s guidance are known for their strong foundations and, more importantly, their continued passion for rowing—a testament to the enjoyment and growth they experience under his guidance. 

His influence has extended to developing and supporting young coaches, many of whom began their coaching careers under his mentorship and who have gone on to make valuable contributions both within Wellington Rowing Club and across the wider rowing community. He has also played a key role in initiatives such as the local ‘Row for Gold’ programme and coaching North Island Under-18 squads, further shaping the next generation of rowers.

Off the water, Jason’s contributions—often unseen but always significant—have been critical to the smooth running of the club. From managing equipment allocation, preparing boat-loading plans, and organising the boatshed, to repairing gear, driving trailers, and serving as Safety Officer, his behind-the-scenes efforts have been invaluable.

As a long-serving committee member for both Wellington Rowing Club and Onslow Rowing Club, Jason has demonstrated a deep and consistent commitment to the sport and to the people who make up our rowing community. His service, both visible and behind the scenes, has made a lasting impact on our club’s culture, performance, and spirit.

The following comment from Blair Currie, who rowed with Jason at Hamilton Rowing Club, both reflects and reinforces our experience of Jason at Wellington Rowing Club:

“Throughout his time at HRC, Jason consistently took on big challenges and didn’t just chase the shiny stuff. He was extremely disciplined with his training. He came from a time when our coaches loved entering “the fit ones” in too many races—no three-race maximums back then! I suppose we’ll never know, but in my opinion, a more selfish approach to his goals might have yielded more medals in his preferred single scull.

"But that’s exactly what made Jason a special member of our club—and clearly a special member of Wellington Rowing Club as well. He was always a team player: first to boat loading, last to leave, always engaged in club functions, fundraising, Learn to Row programs, corporate rowing, and supporting fellow members.

"We were very sad to see him leave Hamilton, but glad to see him remain involved in the sport. Many generations have now had the privilege of experiencing his calm, controlled, and experienced personality. He was a fantastic rower, and I believe his coaching journey will see him become an exceptional coach.

"I’m lucky to call him a friend and I’m stoked to see him become a life member of the Wellington Rowing Club.”

Article added: Tuesday 24 February 2026