October 2006
Tuesday 24 October
FISA Rowing Tour 2006 — Switzerland
Written by Warwick Marler, FISA International Rowing Tours
Eighty participants from fourteen countries took part in the FISA 2006 International Rowing Tour from 2 until 10 September 2006. Participants came from North America, Europe, Israel, Japan and Australia. The Australian participants were Nelly Brandsma, Jenny Collins and Jan Mullineaux from Perth, Sue Briton-Jones, Sue Booth and Bev James from Adelaide, Creagh and Rachel Mecham from Noosa and Chris and Lynette Brown and Bronwyn and Warwick Marler from Brisbane.
The average age of participants was about 50 with Nelly, at 81 being the oldest.
The tour commenced with four days rowing on the Lake of Lucerne and finished with three days rowing in the Seeland district, rowing from Murten on the Murtensee to the river Aare – separated by a transit day including sightseeing at the village of Emmental (including the Emmental cheese factory) and the national capital of Berne. The Tour covered an overall distance of about 170 km.
We rowed in coxed quad touring boats. According to the FISA protocols crews were changed every day – providing great fellowship. Being a Rowing Tour, any racing was discouraged. A steady rating of 16 to 18 strokes/minute was the norm.
Full board was provided and we were provided with luxury coaches to transport us to and from the boats each day, transit from Lucerne to Biel and for sightseeing.We were blessed with magical weather with cloudy mornings opening into sunny days with temperatures in the high twenties, and no wind, except for the one day which prevented rowing on the Bielersee.
We were treated to the hospitality of local rowing clubs in Lucerne and Biel. Boats for the tour were provided by clubs throughout the country.
The 2006 Swiss Tour was yet another outstanding FISA International Rowing Tour.
The full report will appear in the forthcoming edition of the Rowing MagOZine.Next years Tour will be held in the USA from 21 to 28 July, rowing through 4 States down the Connecticut River and around the island of Manhattan in New York. Applications will be available for downloading from the FISA website in due course. They should then be submitted to Warwick Marler, the Australian Co-ordinator, PO Box 5867, West End, Queensland, 4101.
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Monday 23 October
Sight set on Beijing
Written by Mitchell Dale (as appeared in the Sunshine Coast Sunday on October 15, 2006)
Maroochydore rower Sonia Mills kicked-off the most important summer of her career to date with a rare hit-out at home in front of her family yesterday.
Mills, who is permanently based in Canberra at the Australian Institute of Sport, was on the water at Kawana Lakes yesterday morning for a Queensland time trial event. It was her first race since she claimed a bronze medal with Australia’s women’s quadruple sculls team at the world championships at Eton in August and she admitted to being a bit rusty.
“It wasn’t too bad, I didn’t set the world on fire but it was enjoyable in a painful way,” Mills said. “I was able to blow a few cobwebs away and warm my body up for what is to come.”
Tomorrow Mills, the reigning Australian single sculls champion, returns to full-time training at the AIS. And she says there won’t be any time to ease her way back into training.
“As of Monday I’ll be doing a minimum of 100km rowing, 250-300km riding, five weights sessions and a couple of cross-training sessions every week,” she said.
“It’s tough but it is all worthwhile if you achieve what you set out to do.”
Number one on the 26-year-old’s list of things to achieve is making the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing.
This summer is crucial for Mills as it is when the journey towards Beijing begins.
“We’ve got the Australian selection trials for the world championships in April,” she said. “The world championships are in Munich next August and Rowing Australia wants to qualify as many boats as possible for the Olympics.
“Rowing Australia will also hold a national camp on December 4. That squad will be condensed a bit in January and then 80-90% of that team is likely to go to the Olympics.”
Yesterday’s competition was the first time Mill’s family have seen her in action for close to four years.
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Thursday 19 October
"Women’s Breaking the Drought” coaching position vacancy
Working with the program manager and the head coaches you will assist in the planning, preparation and provide day to day coaching activities of the AIS Development Rowing Squad. The successful applicant will have Level 2 NCAS rowing accreditation and demonstrated success as a coach at an international level. Tertiary qualifications in a relevant field would be an advantage.
Position will be available until 31 December 2008.
Information and Job Description: www.ausport.gov.au/jobs or Job Description will be posted if name, address and job number are left on answering machine Tel: 02 6214 1437.
In addition to the salary stated job attracts superannuation and employment benefits including use of the gymnasium, childcare and parking facilities available on site.
For enquiries about the job after reading the job description contact:
Andrew Douglas, Tel 02 6214 1370 www.ausport.gov.au/jobs
How to Apply
Applications should address at least the Selection Criteria section of the Job Description. Please submit applications by email to recruitment@ausport.gov.au by 5.00pm on Friday, 27 October 2006, or telephone 02 6214 1328 if you have difficulty with this service. All applications will be acknowledged electronically.
Applicants must be Australian citizens or permanent residents of Australia.
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Wednesday 18 October
2006 Rower of the Year awards: nominations sought
Rowing Australia is now seeking nominations for the 2006 Rower of the Year awards. These awards celebrate the achievements of Rowing Australia’s elite athletes, coaches and volunteers over the past year.
Full details — click here —
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Tuesday 17 October
Australian Sports Commission: Rowing Administrator
A part time opportunity is available to provide primary administrative support to the Program Manager, Program Coordinator and coaching employees and ensure the efficient office operation of the Rowing Program.
Position is 25 hours per week, based in Canberra and will be available until 31 December 2008. The pro-rata salary for 25 hours per week is $28,242 - $30,502.
In addition to the salary stated job attracts superannuation and employment benefits including use of the gymnasium, childcare and parking facilities available on site.
For enquiries about the job after reading the job description contact:
Dean Oakman
Tel 02 6285 3613
www.ausport.gov.au/jobs
How to Apply
Applications should address at least the selection criteria section of the Job Description.
Please submit applications by email to: recruitment@ausport.gov.au
by 5.00pm on Friday 27 October 2006, or telephone 02 6214 1328 if you have difficulty with this service. All applications will be acknowledged electronically.
Applicants must be Australian citizens or permanent residents of Australia.
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Thursday 12 October
Australian Institute of Sport: Assistant Coach Women's Rowing
A role has become available to assist in the coaching of the elite senior female AIS scholarship rowers in preparation for the Beijing Olympics. The role is to provide intensive, high quality training, coordinating sport sciences support services and assistance during competition.
Position is based in Canberra and will be available until 31 December 2008.
Information and Job Description: www.ausport.gov.au/jobs or Job Description will be posted if name, address and job number are left on answering machine Tel: 02 6214 1437.
In addition to the salary stated job attracts superannuation and employment benefits including use of the gymnasium, childcare and parking facilities available on site.
For enquiries about the job after reading the job description contact:
Dean Oakman
Tel 02 6285 3613
www.ausport.gov.au/jobs
How to Apply
Applications should address at least the Selection Criteria section of the Job Description.
Please submit applications by email to: recruitment@ausport.gov.au
by 5.00pm on Friday, 27 October 2006, or telephone
02 6214 1328 if you have difficulty with this service.
All applications will be acknowledged electronically.
Applicants must be Australian citizens or permanent residents of Australia.
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Wednesday 11 October
Croker Oars Conference a Big Success
The Rowing Australia Croker Oars Conference, “Creating Our Future Champions”, which attracted a record number of delegates (253), was a resounding success.
The conference, held from 6 to 8 October on the Gold Coast, included presentations from 17 national and international rowing experts.
The conference’s key message was that by co-operating to deliver a consistent national program, Australia will achieve its objective of being the leading rowing nation in the world.
One of the world's leading rowing experts, Thor Nilsen, the Development Director of FISA, and Drew Ginn, reigning Olympic world champion, gave an inspiring presentation on establishing physical literacy from junior to elite levels. They spoke of the benefits of incorporating a variety of different physical skills into an athlete’s lifestyle. They also spoke about the common physical preparation practices employed by rowing coaches.
Andrew Dee, CEO of Rowing Australia, says the success of the conference was driven by the desire of coaches at all levels to improve the performance of their athletes.
“People are hungry for information. We assembled a number of the world’s leading rowing experts who delivered simple, clear messages about what needs to be done to achieve success in rowing. I’d like to thank everyone who attended the conference. Their enthusiasm to listen and learn was inspiring” he said.
Noel Donaldson, High Performance Director of Rowing Australia, presented a review of Australian rowing and identified the ideal technique for use at all levels of rowing.
“We wanted to start down the track of aligning technique development, training methodology and physical preparation of athletes across Australia from beginner to elite levels. I think we’ve made a promising start but there is more work that needs to be done” said Mr Donaldson.
“The conference was all about improving Australian rowing and I know that if our coaches can take away some of the knowledge they picked up and apply it with their athletes in crews then we’ll be in good shape”.
Presenters included:
* Noel Donaldson, High Performance Director, Rowing Australia
* Allan Hahn, Head of Applied Research Centre, Australian Institute of Sport
* Andrew Douglas, Senior Talent Search Coordinator, Australian Institute of Sport
* Lyall McCarthy, National Head Coach Women, Rowing Australia and AIS Senior Coach Women
* Brian Richardson, National Head Coach Men, Rowing Australia and AIS Senior Coach Men
* Chris O’Brien, Head Rowing Coach, Victorian Institute of Sport
* Gillian Campbell, Head Coach, Pymble Ladies’ College
* Thor Nilsen, Development Director, FISA
* Andrew Matheson, High Performance Manager, Rowing New Zealand
* Antonio Maurogiovanni, Head Rowing Coach, Western Australian Institute of Sport
* Denise Jennings, Physical Preparation Co-ordinator, Victorian Institute of Sport
* Wendy Braybon, Physiotherapist, Victorian Institute of Sport
* Marty Rabjohns
* Mike McLaughlin, McLaughlin Sports Consultancy
* Drew Ginn, Olympic Gold Medallist
* Ivan Hooper, Sports Science / Sports Medicine Coordinator, Rowing Australia
* Dominic Monypenny, World Champion in the Arms Only Single Scull
Rowing Australia would like to thank Croker Oars, the Australian Sports Commission and the Queensland Government for supporting the conference.
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Thursday 5 October
Legendary World Rowing Coach on the Gold Coast
One of the worlds leading Rowing coaches for the past three decades, Thor Nilsen, will be on the Gold Coast this weekend to discuss how Australia can improve the development of our elite rowers.
He will join other experts from around the world and Australia at the Croker Oars “Creating Our Future Champions” Conference at the Raddisson Hotel from 6 to 8 October.
The objective of this 3 day conference is to align technique development, training methodology and physical preparation of athletes from beginner to elite levels.
Andrew Dee, CEO of Rowing Australia, says a record number of coaches will attend.
“We’re lucky to have a number of leading international and domestic rowing experts who will educate our coaches about improving their athletes. Delegates will hear presentations by some of the most respected international authorities on rowing including the Development Director of FISA, Thor Nielson, High Performance Manager for Rowing New Zealand, Andrew Matheson, and Olympic Rowing Gold Medalist, Drew Ginn” said Mr Dee.
Noel Donaldson, High Performance Director of Rowing Australia, will present a review of Australian rowing and identify the ideal technique for use at all levels of rowing.
“All presentations at the Croker Oars Conference will help to further develop the sport, athletes and coaches” said Mr Donaldson.
“The conference is all about improving Australian rowing. It will involve the most talented and knowledgeable coaches from around the world sharing experience and expertise, which will be invaluable to the sport”, he said.
Rowing Australia would like to thank Croker Oars, the Australian Sports Commission and the Queensland Government for supporting the event.
For further information and to arrange photo and interview opportunities contact Rowena Harbridge on (02) 6273 0232 or 0438 463 370.
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Tuesday 3 October
Rowing Hits Jackpot
Rowing Australia has welcomed the announcement that the rowing finals at the 2008 Beijing Olympics will be screened at the viewer friendly time of 5 – 6pm.
While other sports will be broadcast at less favourable times, rowing is a winner in the broadcasting schedule.
Rowing Australia’s CEO, Andrew Dee, says it’s a major boost for the sport.
“We’ll be sending a strong team to Beijing and I know the athletes will appreciate the finals being broadcast at a time when there’ll be a big audience watching it at home.”
“Television coverage is important to publicise the efforts of our athletes and we’re delighted with this outcome” said Mr Dee.
The Road to Beijing for Australia’s rowing team begins at the AIS in Canberra on December 4 when invited athletes begin trialling for places in the 2008 Olympic squad.
75 athletes will undertake various training and testing exercises at the National Camp to measure their physical fitness and endurance levels.
Athletes attending the Camp will comprise Senior A team members and up and coming stars from the Under 23 team.
The first camp will host 35 athletes and will run from December 4 to 10. A second camp for 40 athletes and will run from 10-15 December.
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September 2006
Tuesday 26 September
Position vacant: RA Adaptive Rowing and Competition Administrator
Rowing Australia is seeking applications from suitably qualified candidates for the position of Adaptive Rowing and Competition Administrator. The position is full-time and will be based in Canberra.
The main tasks include:
• Under the direction of the NDO, draft and implement Rowing Australia’s Disability Action Plan
• Under the direction of the HPD and NDO, administer the implementation of Rowing Australia’s Adaptive Rowing High Performance Plan
• Assist with the development of policies relating to adaptive rowing including but not exclusive to classification and competition
• Provide technical assistance to State Rowing Associations and local clubs in the establishment and management of Adaptive Rowing programs
• Assist with the identification and management of Rowing Australia’s Adaptive High Performance Centres
• Assist in the organisation of transportation and accommodation of adaptive athletes to National Selection Regattas, National Selection Camps and overseas tours
• Provide secretariat support to Rowing Australia’s Project Connect Steering Committee and Adaptive Rowing Committee
• Liaise with the Australian Paralympic Committee as required
• Assist with Rowing Australia requirements to support and attend Rowing Australia events including trophies, Boat Race Officials, merchandise etc.
Applications must be submitted to Rowing Australia by the close of business on Wednesday 11 October 2006. They can be forwarded:
* by email to Adam Horner at ahorner@rowingaustralia.com.au or
* posted to PO Box 245, Belconnen ACT 2617.
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Monday 25 September
Fox Sports broadcast of the 2006 World Cups and World Championships
Rowing Australia previously reported that it had secured a three-year deal with Fox Sports to broadcast the FISA World Cup and World Championship regattas, with 2006 being the first year of this arrangement. We are pleased to advise you of the following programming schedule, provided by the broadcaster earlier today.
We hope you enjoy watching our national team take on the best in the world!
Program
Tuesday 26 September
Fox Sports 2
12.00 am - 2.00 am EST
World Cup (Germany)
Wednesday 27 September
Fox Sports 2
12.00 am - 2.00 am EST
World Cup (Poland)
Thursday 28 September
Fox Sports 2
12.00 am - 2.00 am EST
World Cup (Switzerland)
Thursday 28 September
Fox Sports 1
3.00 pm - 5.00 pm EST
World Championship Highlights (Part 1)
Saturday 30 September
Fox Sports 1
12.00 am - 2.00 am EST
World Championship Highlights (Part 1)
Saturday 30 September
Fox Sports 2
3.00 pm - 5.00 pm EST
World Championship Highlights (Part 2)
Sunday 1 October
Fox Sports 3
12.00 am - 2.00 am EST
World Championship Highlights (Part 2)
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Friday 22 September
Australian rowing magazine: for sale
Unique opportunity
The only rowing magazine in Australia is for sale. This young magazine (15months) already has its place on a national and international level. Just sit behind the desk and develop it to its full potential.
Call Margaret on 0405 539 948.
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Thursday 21 September
Australian Rowing News: Issue 24, September 2006 edition
The September 2006 edition, issue 24, of Australian Rowing News is now available.
Click here to view.
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Monday 4 September 2006
New Zealand claim 2006 Australian Youth Cup
The Rusty Robertson trophy for the highest number of points was up for grabs over the weekend when the 2006 Australian Youth Cup was held in Adelaide. The event attracted the top youth rowers from Australia and New Zealand and delivered some exciting racing. Designed to provide additional competition for rowers under the age of 21, the event didn’t disappoint with New Zealand emerging as the overall points score winner.
A consistent effort by the New Zealand team saw all of their crews make A finals, which translated into 2 gold, 4 silver and 6 bronze medals. This included an impressive display of power by their women’s eight who charged down the course to claim the final race of the competition and the Rusty Robertson trophy. Host state South Australia finished in second position but with more gold medals then the New Zealand team. With 5 gold and 3 bronze the South Australians were in the hunt until the last race but had to settle for second overall when their women’s eight finished in 5th position. Queensland finished 3rd on the points score followed by Victoria, New South Wales, Tasmania, Western Australia and the Australian Capital Territory.
Congratulations to all the athletes and coaches who took part in this year’s events. Click here to view a full list of results.
The 2007 Australia Youth Cup will be held in Nagambie, Victoria from 31 August to 2 September 2007.
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Monday 4 September 2006
FISA news
Lake Karapiro, NZ to host 2010 World Championships
The 114th Annual Ordinary Congress of the International Rowing Federation (FISA) took place in Eton, Great Britain on Monday 28 August 2006 and was attended by 117 delegates from 62 countries.
The main decisions taken by the FISA Congress were:
2010 World Rowing Championships
The 2010 World Rowing Championships have been attributed to Lake Karapiro, New Zealand. This vote was a ratification of the FISA Council's recommendation. Amsterdam, The Netherlands was the other candidate but withdrew their bid earlier in the bidding process in favour of the Kiwi bid.
2009 World Rowing Under 23 Championship and 2010 World Rowing Junior Championships Bids
The 2009 World Rowing Under 23 Championships and the 2010 World Rowing Junior Championships go to Racice, Czech Republic. Racice, just north of Prague, has hosted many international events on its international regatta course in both rowing and canoeing.
Council Elections
The FISA Congress re-elected the Chairs of its specialist commissions; Mike Tanner of Hong Kong China, Patrick Rombaut of Belgium, John Boultbee of Australia, Tricia Smith of Canada, Peter Morrison of Great Britain, Arno Boes of Germany and Fay Kim Ho of Hong Kong China.
Poznan, Poland to host 2007 European Rowing Championships
The Malta Regatta course in Poznan, Poland has been selected to host the 2007 European Rowing Championships on the weekend of 22-23 September 2007. The decision was made by FISA's European member National Rowing Federations yesterday which was attended by delegates from 31 European National Rowing Federations in Eton, Great Britain, following the conclusion of the World Rowing Championships.
