Rowing SA: Paris Olympics 2024 - National Rowers Ready for Global Challenge

The anticipation is palpable as the Rowing South Africa team departed for France on Thursday, 18th of July. The team, comprising of the men's pair John Smith and Chris Baxter, and women's single sculler Paige Badenhorst, has just completed their final preparation camp in Tzaneen and are ready to represent South Africa on the world stage.

The athletes have completed their South African based training in Tzaneen. This preparation camp has been crucial in ensuring that they are in top form for the upcoming global competition. Their dedication and hard work have not gone unnoticed, and the nation eagerly awaits their performance. Fans and members of Rowing South Africa arrived at OR Tambo International Airport on Thursday to show their support and cheer the team on as they gathered for pictures and last-minute well-wishes before they leave SA soil, only to return in August.

“Such an amazing send off from the rowing community! So super special to see our coaches and fellow rowers in their Green and Gold showing their support for our rowers. The team is ready and excited to make South Africa proud” - Grant Dodds, Rowing South African team manager.

Paige Badenhorst will be the first to compete, racing in the heat for the women's scull on the 27th of July. Chris Baxter and John Smith will follow, competing in the heat for the men's pair on the 28th of July. These initial races will set the stage for what promises to be a thrilling journey for the South African rowers.

As the team embarks on this exciting journey, the support from South Africans nationwide will be crucial. Rowing South Africa encourages everyone to follow the events and cheer for our athletes as they strive for glory on the world stage.

For continuous updates and live coverage, follow Rowing South Africa on social media.

For further information please visit https://rowsa.co.za/

-- ENDS --

For media enquiries and interviews please contact [email protected]