King’s and Queen’s Cup Luncheon – by Kendall Brodie

Sydney Rowing Club was well represented at the annual King’s and Queen’s Cup Luncheon held at the Four Seasons Hotel, last Friday with eleven athletes and two coaches named in the 2016 NSW State Team.

The event began with a minute’s silence to honour the life of Sarah Tait, one of Australia’s most successful oarswomen both on and off the water. Lizzi Chapman gave a touching tribute to Sarah’s rowing achievements and strength of character as a role model and leader within Women’s rowing.

In a change of tone, the entrée of smoked salmon and salad accompanied the address from rowing historian, Andrew Guerin in which he detailed the rich history of the King’s Cup. The history of the event was no doubt inspiring and perhaps provided a glimpse into the future for the four SRC members who will contest the Noel F Wilkinson Cup (Men’s youth eight) in their first interstate team.

As the afternoon rolled on, the main of scotch fillet and potato gratin was served while highlights of last year’s interstate regatta underlined the strength of the New South Welshmen and Women and their passion and determination in racing for their state.

After a brief topping up of refreshments, King’s Cup veteran James Chapman together with Queen’s Cup coxswain Kendall Brodie were invited onto the stage to draw lanes for their respective races. It was sheer good luck that both the King’s and Queen’s Cup were drawn in lane 5, an ideal position to be in in such a race.

Wearing his NSW honour Blazer, Chappo took the opportunity to call upon this years NSW State Team representatives to reflect on what it means to wear the Waratah on race day as well as giving an insight into the winning streak of the NSW King’s Cup crew. Kendall spoke from a coxswain’s perspective on how the interstate race differs from any other race and how she brings her crew together. Kendall is looking forward to the regatta following the strength displayed by this years Queen’s Cup crew and the promise of an exciting race.

The afternoon was capped off with a delightfully fluffy meringue dessert and lots of eager discussion around which states are looking strong this year. We wish all of the NSW athletes the best of luck in The Interstate Regatta to be held on 20 March at the Sydney International Regatta.