Records and support from parents help St Andrew’s School for Girls secure the overall title at the South African Schools Rowing Championships held at Roodeplaat Dam
Pretoria, South Africa (14 March 2026) – The water at Roodeplaat Dam came alive with energy as South Africa’s top young rowers gathered for the South African Schools Rowing Championships. Among the many crews racing for glory, one team made sure their oars left an effect: the rowers from St Andrew’s School for Girls.
Across a packed programme of races, the St Andrew’s squad delivered performance after performance that spoke of teamwork. Their efforts ultimately paid off in spectacular fashion, with the school crowned Overall Girls’ School Winners, confirming St Andrew’s as the top girls’ rowing school in South Africa for the second consecutive year.
Their success formed part of a memorable championship weekend. On the boys’ side, St Benedict’s College also made headlines after securing their 32nd consecutive national championship title, continuing one of the most remarkable winning streaks in school sport.
Back on the girls’ side, one of the defining moments of the regatta came in the First Quad final, where the St Andrew’s crew powered down the course with confidence to secure a brilliant victory.
But the celebrations did not stop there.
The championships also saw two record-breaking achievements from the St Andrew’s crews. The U14 Quad set a new South African Schools Championships record, while the U15 Double delivered an exceptional row to establish a new course record. This also stands as a South African Schools Championships record.
Behind every race was the presence of the St Andrew’s community. Along the banks, parents, supporters and teammates created a wall of encouragement, cheering every stroke. Much of the programme’s success is guided by head coach Jamie Croly, whose vision and commitment continue to shape a culture of excellence within the rowing squad.
By the time the final races wrapped up, it was clear that South African school rowing is thriving, with teams continuing to raise the bar.
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