Wellington Rowing Club delivered a determined performance at the 2026 New Zealand Rowing Club Championships in Karapiro, setting some promising foundations for the future.

Leading the charge were Samuel Marsden Collegiate’s Imogen Hille and Charlie Fitzgerald who raced in Wellington Rowing Club colours, claiming the bronze medal in the Women’s Club Pair against significantly older crews. Imogen and Charlie have had a fantastic season in this boat, which bodes well for them at the Maadi Cup regatta at the end of March.

Other notable performances came from the Men’s Intermediate Eight (6th in A Final) and Coxed Four (7th in A Final); the Women’s Intermediate Eight (7th in A Final); and the Men’s Novice Four (8th in A Final). And in the first year of mixed eights at the national champs, two Wellington crews featured in the Mixed Intermediate Eights, finishing 4th and 7th in the A Final.

Beyond these headline performances, Wellington Rowing Club showed impressive depth, with multiple crews reaching semifinals and B finals. This breadth of performance ensured the club remained visible across the regatta and competitive in a wide range of boat classes.

In sweep rowing, Wellington’s boats demonstrated strong rhythm and commitment. While podium finishes proved elusive, several crews were within close margins of the leading boats, reinforcing the club’s ability to compete at a high level.

The sculling squad also contributed significantly, with athletes racing in singles, doubles, and quads. A number of these crews progressed deep into the regatta, further underlining the club’s depth.

A key feature of the campaign was the number of emerging rowers stepping into championship racing. Many younger athletes gained valuable experience progressing through heats and repechages, setting a strong foundation for future success.

While the club did not finish the regatta with as many medals as it has in recent years, this is in part due to a significant number of experienced athletes who moved away from Wellington in recent seasons. This season has been very much about beginning the rebuilding phases and blooding new athletes, with a view to converting these performances into podium finishes in future seasons.

Many of WRC’s crews are comprised of school rowers, whose focus now shifts to the Maadi Cup regatta. All the best to everyone competing in Twizel.

Article added: Monday 3 March 2026