VLRC Chairman's Welcome

Wow, it’s hard to believe that we are already hosting another RMB VLC Sprints regatta. This is our 115th running of the regatta and promises once again to be one of the premier events on the local rowing calendar.

Once again we look forward to hosting some of our national rowers who will be returning to compete at Sprints. We have arranged an interview with the national coach Tiago Loureiro as we look to share and learn from his experience in growing the sport. This is the beginning of another big year for our national squad as they prepare to qualify for the Olympics.

We will also be chatting to representatives from the local World Rowing Master’s Regatta organising committee, getting an update on what is happening there and how we as individuals can get involved to ensure that this is a success for South African rowing.

Once again we host a full field of events and a huge thank you must go to all the volunteer officials who take time out of their day to come and help out at the regatta. To all the other volunteers from VLC, their friends and family who help out on the day, another huge thank you - this event doesn’t take place without you.

To our headline sponsor, RMB, this regatta would not be the same without your support. We welcome your commitment not only to our Sprints regatta, but to your ongoing support in putting South African Rowing on the world map. From support for Rowing Development run so capably by Virginia Mabaso who has kindly contributed an update to this booklet, through the schools and various clubs, right up to the National Squad, your contribution is immense.

And to each one of our competitors and supporters, for whom we take great pleasure in putting on this event – we wish you an enjoyable weekend of racing. May your rowing go from strength to strength through 2023.