Welcome to the Team Bishop Bavin Rowing Blogsite

2010 GSRF/SASRU Regatta Fixtures

2010-08-20T11:04:00.004+02:00

GSRF/SASRU Regatta Fixtures

Team Bishop Bavin Rowing Parents Support GroupUpcoming Events:

28 August 2010 - Winter Rowing Camp
12 September 2010 - Boat House Blessing
2nd October 2010 -Open Day / St Benedicts Regatta
9th October 2010 - Wemmer Sprints
16th October 2010 - St Dunstans Junior Regatta
23 October 2010 - Holy Rosary Senior Regatta
30/31 October 2010 - Gaunteg Champs

Awards Breakfast photos

2010-04-19T12:46:00.024+02:00

Provincial Rowers

2010-04-01T15:33:00.002+02:00

Congratulations to members of Team Bishop Bavin who were selected to represent Gauteng at the forthcoming SA Championship regatta on 24th & 25th April.

For the first time, interprovincial events will be held for U16s and we would like to congratulate, Jacinta De Almeida, Devon Miller & Ryan De Villiers on their selection.

For the seniors, congratulations go to Edward Templemore Walters and Scott Donaldson.

We wish all of them well at the regatta and for the National selections which will take place in May.

Annual Rowing Awards Function

2010-04-01T15:28:00.003+02:00

The annual rowing awards function will take place on Saturday 17th April at 9am in the School Dining Hall.

This is a formal event and rowers are expected to attend in full school uniform.

The event will take the form of a breakfast and tickets will be available for parents and non-rowers at R95 each.

All members of Team Bishop Bavin are eligible for awards and as this is the main opportunity to acknowledge our rowers your attendance would be welcomed.

Formal invitations will be sent out after the Easter holidays.

Please diarise the date in the meantime.

New Entry Fees at Roodeplaat

2010-04-01T15:23:00.002+02:00

With effect from 1st April the fees for entering the Roodeplaat Reserve will rise from R25 per vehicle to R35 per vehicle.

A season ticket which allows unlimited access for a year is available at R350. Please note that attendance at Gauteng Champs in October and SA Champs in March accounts for 5 entries already therefore it may make sense to invest in one.

Pictures from SA Champs Regatta

2010-03-02T16:09:00.008+02:00

Pictures from Buffalo & Selborne Regattas

2010-02-17T13:47:00.011+02:00

Team Bishop Bavin at the end of a long days racing

Obviously not long enough...................

Jacinta (obviously a stickler for rules) gaurds the gate to the guest house

Jacinta again in helpfull mode...........

Team Bishop Bavin checking in at the guest house

Robyn lends a hand - not a word about lady drivers...........

Jamie, Wesley, Shannon, Kaylee, Alexia & John await a lift to the guest house

Still some energy left after a long day.

That's better.....

The girls show off their range of theft proof luggage - which thief would be caught carrying a metallic pink bag after all ?

Ed does some serious reading....... (yeah right !!)

Duncan keeps a close watch on everything.

Ryan helps Darren with his contact lenses.

The girls 2nd Quad

Jamie and Kaylee in their U16 double

Tara and her crew from VL/UJ

Scott rows to the start of his singles race

Scott - in happy mood after the Open Boys quad race

Tara does some last minute adjustments to the U16 girls double

Scott demonstrates why you should never work with children and small animals

Ed & Scott - the faces say it all

Ryan - in relaxed mood

Renato - deadly in the single sculls

Told you....

John on his way to the start.

Jamie

Jamie & Bonita

The Open Girls Quad

Darren

Ben - in good spirits - despite the load

The Open Boys 2nd Quad - 4th in the A Final - Excellent !!

Kirsty & Dominique in the Open Girls double

The Open Girls 2nd Quad

The double gets some running repairs

Tara gives some last minute advice to Bonita and Bella

Everyone lends a hand

The girls in supporter mode

Feedback from Weekend 30th/31st January

2010-02-01T11:41:00.002+02:00

Apologies to all crews whose training was affected by the swimming event held at Germiston Lake over the past weekend.

Despite our best efforts to schdule sessions around this - the information given was incorrect which impacted on the late morning sessions.

We can only apologise to everyone for the inconvenience caused but if its any consolation, we were not the only ones affected.

The good news is that the weekend off provided us with the opportunity to assist with some much needed maintenance of boats and equipment and special thanks to those who were able to help.

The work party was able to tackle most of the tasks on the list of things to do, and the plan is to finish off over the weekend prior to SA Champs.

A small group of parents also assisted with the clearing of weed and maintenance of lanes at Roodeplaat.

The news is that the amount of weed is significantly less than that experienced at the last regatta, however there is still enough of it around to cause problems.

Rowsa will be working on the course over the weeks leading up to SA Champs to clear the remaining weed and make sure the course is rowable. Many thanks to those parents who have contributed either time or money (or both) to make sure the regatta can go ahead and we have fair racing conditions. Please do remember that we have a number of our rowers who will be competing for the last time at this event and it would be great if our contribution has gone someway to ensuring safe and fair conditions.

Results Summary from VLC/UJ Regatta

2010-01-26T16:33:00.003+02:00

In wet but otherwise calm conditions, Team Bishop Bavin maintained their current run of form by winning medal positions in 15 of the 22 "A" events entered and 11 of the 17 "B" events.

The medal tally in the "A" events included 7 Gold, 3 Silver and 7 Bronze.

Crews in the "B" events secured 3 Firsts, 5 Seconds and 5 Thirds.

Importantly, the coaching team used the opportunity to test some new crew combinations and entered a number of events for the first time.

Apart from U16 & Open pairs, U16 girls & boys quads competed for the first time this season and showed signs that they can compete for positions in the A finals at SA Champs.

Our Open Boys 1st V111, also took part in their first ever regatta, coming a credible 4th ahead of established crews from St. Johns & Parktown. The closeness of the times between the crews suggests that medal positions at SA Champs are still up for grabs.

For more details on the individual events click on the link to the regatta website (www.regatta.co.za)

VLC/UJ Regatta - Pictures

2010-01-26T07:29:00.007+02:00

Team Bishop Bavin - Winners of the Co-Ed trophy

Bonita in the drive.

Darren & Zander await the start of their doubles race

Kaylee & Jamie on their way to winning their heat

Alex & Ashton - take 3rd place in U16 pairs at the first attempt

Jacinta lines up at the start of the U16 singles

Darren thinks its a long way to the finish.......

Kirsty at the catch

The Open Boys Quad show their mettle

Robyn forgets the boat comes with rear view mirror as standard

Jacinta

Scott & Devon line up at the start of their U19 Pairs heat

Shannon repeats the customer's order - 2 Big Macs plus Fries to go........

The Open Girls Quad lining up at the start

The 1st V111 makes its way to down to the jetty

On their way to the start

And away they go......

Near the finish and well ahead of Bennies 2nd crew

and the KES 2nd crew.....

Nothing in it between between the front boats - seconds separate the medals

The traditional lane recovery after the regatta

Ryan, Darren, Devon & Dominique

Scott lends a hand - abley assisted by Ashley

So how many blondes does it take to reel the lanes in ?

The Open Boys crew helping manfully

Ben catches up on some fielding practice

Gray Wilson twins Alex and Mathew plus John

Alexia, Tyler and Shannon supervise the proceedings

Prize Giving

Scott & Dominique show off the silver wear. Coach Ben looks on.

Congratulations to all crews for a great regatta !!

Parktown Regatta Results - 16th January

2010-01-18T14:07:00.004+02:00

In extremely hot and increasingly difficult racing conditions (arising from the dreaded water hyacinth), Team Bishop Bavin performed extremely well at Saturday's Parktown regatta which was held at Roodeplaat.

Our crews participated in a total of 20 "A" events and 3 "B" events, winning medal positions in 17 of the "A" events, and achieving a credible 2nd & 3rd place in one of the "B" events.

The medal tally included 6 Golds, 9 Silvers and 4 Bronze. It's also worth pointing out that a number of our crews missed out on higher positions by mere hundreths of a second.

Congratulations to all of the crews who participated and we look forward to seeing you go from strength to strength in the weeks ahead.

Access to Bishop Bavin School

2010-01-13T11:40:00.002+02:00

We are aware that parents of rowers from Assumption & Leeuwenhof have to sign the visitors register each time they enter the school which although necessary is time-consuming and rather tedious.

From Monday 18th January we will set up a "Rowing Register" at the entrance point to the school which will have a list of rowers' names. On arrival, you simply need to identify your child as a rower and sign against their name. This should make the process a bit quicker however we will monitor the situation and try to make further improvements.

Pictures from Boat Race

2010-01-13T08:28:00.012+02:00

Proud coaches Ben & Tara, bask in the moments after the announcement of the results of the head race.

Tara & the Open Girls 1st Quad - making "C" final on their first attempt - Awesome !!

Ben celebrates the 1st V111's result in the head race ("D" final). Durian gives a rather restrained royal wave.

The crews share a special moment.

Marian spots something................

Debbie.....caught in the act.

The Boys show why teenage excitement and tall buildings don't go well together.

The Open Girls Quad about to pass ZRC.

Going.....going..........

Team Spirit !! - The Open Girls await the return of the boys.

The 1st V111 on its way to the start.

The junior boys in the 1st V111 preparing to set off for the start.

The 1st V111 in race mode.

The other half of the 1st V111

Ben is so excited by the result that he sings "I'm a little tea pot"....... Scott is amused

Blades of Glory

Durian strikes a pose

John gets back down to business

Ray hitches a ride to the start

Cox Renato - a job well done !!

Richard and Ben share some numbers

Scott & proud Mum

Bishop Bavin/Mondeor Regatta - 17th October

2009-10-20T12:58:00.002+02:00

Team Bishop Bavin competed in a total of 21 events at Saturday's regatta, 12 of which were "A" events.

With us fielding more than one entry in many of these events, we secured 18 medal positions, evenly split between 1st, 2nd & 3rd.

Similarly in the "B" events, we secured four 1sts and four 2nds and demonstrating how quickly our novice rowers are improving and should be in a position to compete for spots in the finals at Gauteng Champs.

Congratulations to all crews for such a great performance.

Photos from Wemmer Sprints

2009-10-13T08:02:00.011+02:00

Pictures from U14/U15 regatta on 26 Sept 2009

2009-10-06T08:44:00.002+02:00

Lost Property

2009-09-29T17:51:00.003+02:00

With the advent of the regatta season comes the ever increasing pile of abandonded clothing, books, water bottles and miscelaneous rowing gear that accumulates during the season. We already have several items of clothing and a couple of camp chairs.

We all know how expensive it is to replace kit, so we've set up a lost property bin at the boat shed.

Please feel to rummage around in it when you are next at VLC. You might be pleasantly surprised !!

Please do remember to mark as much of your stuff as possible. It just makes it so much easier to identify.

18 from 18 at St. Dunstans - 26th September

2009-09-28T12:57:00.004+02:00

Okay so it wasn't quite a clean sweep but with many of Team Bishop Bavin sporting more medals than Colonel Gaddafi you could have fooled us !!

Congratulations to our junior crews who took part in Saturday's regatta at Roodeplaat. In hot conditions they demonstrated that they will be a force to be reckoned with come the provincial championships at the end of October.

Team Bishop Bavin entered 18 events and came away with 18 medals.

Medal positions were won in all 8 of the "A" events entered which is an outstanding achievement. The medal tally included 6 Golds, 3 Silvers and 2 Bronze.

Those of you who attended the first regatta will have seen how our novice crews performed and it was therefore pleasing to see them show further improvement by picking up medal positions in 6 of the 10 events entered.
The tally included 3 firsts, 1 second and 2 thirds.

More pleasing is the fact that the times recorded for these crews shows that they are bridging the gap with crews in "A" events. Congratulations to all our novices and the coaching team.

Warning to Parents - Take Note

2009-09-25T13:48:00.002+02:00

Parents are asked to be aware of the following syptoms developing during the forthcoming season:

1) Waking up in the very early hours of the morning - especially on weekends

2) Water, Energade and Jelly Babies make up an increasing part of your grocery bill

3) Always having warm jackets in the car - even in Summer

4) Your car smells permanently of suntan lotion because it lives in the cubbyhole - even in Winter

5) You are developing a stiff neck from falling asleep in a camping chair too often

6) Spending excessive amounts of money with nothing tangible to show for it

7) Your shopping list often includes a No. 10 spanner

Please do not be concerned if you are experiencing any of the above symptoms - you are simply becoming a rowing parent - Welcome to the club !!

St Benedicts Regatta - 19th September

2009-09-20T16:36:00.002+02:00

Team Bishop Bavin competed in the first regatta of the season on Sat 19th Sept and despite an unusually cold and windy start at Roodeplaat, the rowers put in a great performance. With many of them rowing in either their first ever regatta or rowing 2000m for the first time they can be rightfully proud of their achievements and we look forward to seeing them go from strength to strength.

For the record we participated in a total of 25 events, 15 of which were "A" events.

Our crews went on to win medal positions in 10 of the 15 events which is a great start to the season. The total medal tally was 7 Golds and 4 Silvers.

In the B & C races our crews did us proud and its clear that they will soon be challenging for slots in the A events.

Thanks to all the parents who made the trip out to Roodeplaat and showed their support.

Pictures from St. Benedicts Regatta - 19th Sept

2009-09-20T15:51:00.014+02:00

Team Bishop Bavin at work - welcoming the Open Boys Quad

Wico - getting to grips with regatta fare

Scott gets some last minute advice from Ben

Wesley returns after his heat

Wesley and Daniel share a moment

Tyler gives us her traditional royal wave

Rogan and Thomas head out for their doubles event

The senior girls waiting for the next event

Devon & Daniel help a team mate off the water

Ben holds a debriefing after the open boys double event Ryan resorts to extreme measures to stay warm !

Ross in the drivers seat

Rogan gets ready for his next event

Renato shows why the nick name "small" doesn't work anymore

Renato relaxes amongst his supporters

The Open girls 2nd Quad coming off the water

Natascha congratulates Nicole on winning her heat.

Daniel doesn't yet appreciate that its lucky for a bird to poop on you

Mathew practices his latest mind reading trick on coach Durian

Lesley (restraints in hand) encourages the Assumption girls

Lawrence takes a moment to reflect on some big issues (Fanta grape or Fanta Orange ?)

Kyle & Lawrence take a stroll

Kylene shares a moment with Danielle and Claire

Kyle takes a moment to work on his "air guitar" skills

The girls U15 quad

The junior boys at work on the jetty

John & Daniel

Jessica and Shannon talk tactics

Isabella - looking relaxed

Tyler and Mum (Ingrid) share a moment after Tyler's win

Team BBRowing (well the girl part anyway)

Umpire Gaynor - looking very official - she even has her own chauffeur !

Coach Durian and Mathew

Devon shows that there is only one direction for him at the moment !!

Mr & Mrs Dalziel senior - take in the joys of the regatta

Coach Ben, congratulates the Open boys 2nd quad on their great performance

Alex and Raquel - another great performance from a novice crew

The Open boys 2nd Quad heading out for their event

Blast from the Past

2009-09-18T15:36:00.005+02:00

Scott in his younger days at BBRowing - check out the size of the shoes !!

Scott & Luis an awesome double

Yes that really is Scott at 2 and Ashton at 3. Luis is at bow. Barry McNeice was the stroke.

To all our novice rowers, have faith !!

Let me know if you have any pics of your rowers from the early days - would be great to make up a montage and see if we can recognise them !!

Roodeplaat Training Photo's - August 2009

2009-09-14T12:56:00.019+02:00

Therapuetic Use Exemption Forms - Important Notice

2009-09-12T13:40:00.002+02:00

All parents should make themselves aware of which medications are prohibited and ensure that that their child has a valid Therapuetic Use Exemption (TUE) where prohibited prescribed medication is being used by their child. Examples include Asthma medications and Ritalin.

A list of prohibited substances is available on the website www.drugfreesport.org.za Parents can also download the latest application forms which should be completed and returned either by fax to (021) 761 8148 or by E-mail to Pamela@drugfreesport.org.za.

Enquiries can be handled telephonically on (021) 761 8034

Kindly note that applications are treated confidentially and should be submitted 4 weeks before championship events where the bulk of testing takes place.

If in any doubt, please speak to your Doctor or Pharmacist as the penalties for contravention are severe.

Bank Details for Bishop Bavin School

2009-09-12T13:34:00.002+02:00

Parents wishing to make payments to School by electronic funds transfer (EFT) should use the following bank details:

Bishop Bavin School
Standard Bank Bedford Gardens
Branch Code 018305
Account Number 022577130

Always reference your transfer with you family name and a short description of the reason (e.g. McDonald - Rowing Camp)

Team Bishop Bavin Kit

2009-09-12T13:27:00.002+02:00

Parents and Team Bishop Bvain rowers are reminded that racing crews must have matching trisuits & caps (if worn) and these must be in the official club colours.

Failure to comply can result in anything from a warning by the officials to disqualification from the event.

Before, during and betwen races, Team BBRowing is expected to wear navy blue shorts/skirts and either the blue training top or (in the case of the girls), white "JT" type tops.

Parents are asked to assist by checking that their rower leaves home with the correct kit on regatta days.

The full range of kit is available from the Dragon's Den shop which is located near the daytime entrance to the school. If in any doubt, ask security for directions.

A new consignment of clothing is expected during the week of 14th September.

Pictures from St. Andrews Regatta

2009-01-27T20:09:00.005+02:00

Tyler, Kirsty, Alexia and Brenna

The U15 Girls quad

Zikayla and Lara

Scott & Wesley

Kylene, with help from Scott and Wesley, catch a VLC rower trying to steal a double (only kidding !!)

Alex and Scott helping the girls

Ashton and Ryan

Nicole nervously awaits the outcome of her race

See, no need to worry - Nicole and Natascha - medal winners on the day

New parent Miriam helps out at the jetty

Matt and Graham share a joke

Marian is glad the day is nearly over

Lesle

Lara and Zikayla

Kylene and crew ponder the next move

Kate leaves her wearm up to the last moment

Oops - caught out

Ingrid looking nice and relaxed

Matt advises Ray on how to adjust the horizontal hold on his shirt

Helen and Grant

Another Kodak moment - Gaynor and Claire

Gaynor attempts some higher grade maths using only her right hand

Gary

Claire

Chris

Chantal appears distraught at not winning the raffle

New parent Carl

Brenna and Colleen

Bonita and Kate

Annette takes her turn on watch

Pictures from Jeppe Regatta - Jan 17th 2009

2009-01-18T15:03:00.012+02:00

Tools of the trade

Ralph appears unimpressed with the hot dogs - should have used Sausage Saloon hey ?

Matt gives a pep talk

Tom, John & Daniel listen avidly - (John appears ready to applaud)

Ross appears to have a lot to learn when it comes to keeping the girls entertained with witty conversation.

Mateu gets some advice from veteran rowers Alex & Mathew

Wesley lends a hand

Nicole and Natascha checking out the venue in preparation for their next regatta

Everyone in fine spirits

John leads everyone in a chorus of a Stevie Wonder classic

Wait a minute......... what's this........... but I thought................... Nooooooo !!!!!

Duncan and John contemplate a sea of hyacinth which gate-crashed the regatta

The organisers quickly set about clearing the course (much easier said than done)

Ross waits patiently (or is that michieviously)

The only good hyacinth is a dead hyacinth (!?!)

Mathew explores the adage about a bird in the hand.............

Aleks questions the merits of having that second peanut butter and syrup roll

A Kodak moment - Ray and Dominique

Matt busies himself as racing restarts

Mateu returns victorius after winning his U15 single sculls heat (his first win)

The U14 boys put together a composite crew for the Quad race

Ross gives Alex some last minute tips on coxing

And away they go (they eventually won their race)

Ashton belatedly gets into the Stevie Wonder groove

Aleks & Renato, fresh from their victory in their Open double event

At the end of a long day - Renato contemplates a day of firsts

After all is said and done and the race is lost or won, for the joy of those in boats and on the banks, it is to God that we give our thanks.

Rowing Returns to Roodeplaat

2009-01-13T13:15:00.002+02:00

The second half of the rowing season kicks off on January 17th with Boys only and Girls only regattas over successive weekends. This is the first time that this format has been tried, and may offer a compromise option to those schools who wish to have all age groups participate on one day whilst ensuring that the regatta finishes at a reasonable time.

Bishop Bavin will be entering crews in both events and we look forward to a return to Roodeplaat and competition over full 1000m and 2000m courses.

Preliminary draws (including event times) should be available on the regatta.co.za website by late Wednesday, with the final draw being issued on Friday. Name changes are permitted on the day of the regatta.

Parents who require assistance with transport to and/or from regattas should contact us on bbrowing@global.co.za or call Eric on 082 451 5056.

Images from Gauteng Schools Championship Regatta

2008-11-06T08:03:00.025+02:00

Bishop Bavin Crew - Gauteng School Championships Nov 2008

Tom and Dominique collect the trophy for Best Co-ed school at the regatta

The U15 Boys Quad - Silver medal winners

Serge gets ready for his heat

Colleen demonstrates why you should never act with children or animals - (they always steal the show)

Sachin - patrolling the perimeter of the gazebo

Shannon and Wesley anxiously waiting on news from the front

Ashton (minus sling) and Grandpa

Strategic Planning ?

Serge Chills between events

Shannon studying

Tom relaxing

Tyler in relaxed mode

The U16 boys relaxing

Josh in conference with Rene & Ralph - is a comeback on the cards ?

Ross & Mateu

Robyn hard at work

Renato phones a friend (hope he hasn't used up his other life-lines)

Renato wishes he had chosen the lemon & herb option instead of extra hot

Two big men in blue shirts (Richard & Ray)

Pam shows Eric the way forward

The Open boys Quad with medals

Open boys at rest - a rare sight

Matthew & Daniel

Mystery Leg - Employees of Bishop Bavin and their familes are not permitted to enter the competition

The faces say it all........ a close finish

Matt & Scott

Lura - underneath the calm exterior the nerves are tingling

Ex rower Luis made a guest appearance at the regatta

Lara, Natascha and Zikayla - just what is Lara looking at ?

Lara and Zikayla after their double race.

Kylene (abley assisted by Jacinta) shows why its good to brush twice a day.

Coach Kylene - pleased with the days results

Kirsty is running out of hand space for all the notes

This texting thing is hard work
Kathy - looking pensive

Kathy couldn't resist the lure of a Bennies Boerie. Wayne is not impressed.

Jenny and Kathy (minus Boerie)

Jessica chills between events

Everybody's favourite big brother John, helps a soutie with his Afrikaans

John gives some consolation to Ashton after his participation in the regatta was cut short through injury.

John in considered mode (just for a moment)

Jacinta - the face says it all !!

John inadvertantly samples some of Pam's famous home brew and has to sit down immediately

(is it just me or is this picture sloping to the right..........................)

Graham and John in relaxed mode

Graham's evil twin brother Rex Nogood considers his next move

I see no ships ! - Danielle recounts Nelson's famous moment from the battle of Trafalger

After Devon's strong showing in the heats, Duncan quickly checks the odds on a place in the final.

Dominique does her best impression of the cuddly Dulux dog

Devon and Mateu share a moment

Devon and Father Duncan (paternal not religious) share a moment (different from the one above)

Graham asks Daniel where he bought his hair piece

Devon

Daniel shows that he has brains as well as brawn

Colleen, Tyler and Ashley have some fun

Pam & Chris await the judges scores (oops - sorry wrong sport)

A pile of Junior girls (is that the correct collective noun ?)

The victorius U15 double

Brenna & Jacinta celebrate their silver medal in the double

Brenna appears to have bought her hair piece from the same shop as Daniel.

Brendon has a laugh whilst Ross tries to work out how to rebuild his phone

A young visitor to the regatta stumbles on some toxic waste material - Aaaargh someone call the press

Alexia & Tyler

Alexia

Alex and Devon

Adrian asks where he should put this.............

Adrian fresh from his heat in single sculls

The open boys 2nd quad

The business end of the open boys quad

Matt checks his script or is it the new bus timetable - Eric keeps a lookout

Mathew & Ashton - Gold medallists in the U15 double

Marisa - looking nice and relaxed

Stephen keeping cool

Lura is delighted after the U14 boys quad wins it's heat - this is what it's all about hey !!

Action from the Natal School champs - Hilton 18 Oct 2008

2008-10-27T09:31:00.002+02:00

KZN Champs Update

2008-10-20T13:59:00.002+02:00

Bishop Bavin rowers competed in 10 "A" and 4 "B" events at the KZN championships held at Albert Falls Dam on Sat 18th October.

In almost perfect rowing conditions, medals were won in 6 of the A events including 3 golds, 3 silvers and a bronze. 2 medals were won in the Boys U14 1x event.

Congratulations to everyone who took part, not only for the great results but also the exemplary behaviour both on and off the water.

A big thank you also to staff and parents who made this tour possible.

Pictures from the weekend will be posted shortly.

Action from the Wemmer Sprints 11 Oct 2008

2008-10-14T12:27:00.018+02:00

Photos from St Stithian Regatta

2008-09-22T15:16:00.009+02:00

New supporters outfits - snug as bugs????

Brenna getting some encouragement from Ashton - you're the girl

The sun is in my eyes and this boat is heavy! How do the boys get it right??

Well done Brenna for getting back into your boat and finishing :-)

Scott looking very STRONG

Graham getting the girls off for their race

Scott's scull race was a real nail biter for Debbie who is getting her information from Richard.

Devon and Ashton looking strong...

St. Stithians Regatta - Summary

2008-09-22T13:21:00.002+02:00

Congratulations to all crews who participated in the St. Stithians regatta on Sat 20th Sept.

The morning started cold & windy and unfortunately conditions, (especially on the water) remained like this for the entire day. What began as a tail wind in the morning, swung round to a full on head wind by the end of the regatta. Tough conditions for all the rowers, especially those novices who were competing for the first time.

Despite this, our rowers did us proud, entering a total of twenty events and taking ten 1st places , seven of which were in "A" races. There were three 1st places in "B" races. In total we had another nine finishes in 2nd & 3rd positions.

To put this in context, the next best school was Holy Rosary with seven wins, followed by St. Andrews with six.

Once again - congratulations to the crews and coaches for such a great start to the new season

Scullers Test 8th of September 2008

2008-09-15T12:38:00.007+02:00

Photos from the Blessing - 6 Sept 2008

2008-09-15T11:55:00.014+02:00

A new school uniform - Claire and Danielle

Dominique at her Best..

Coaches or Grass Hoppers

Pictures from August Rowing Camp

2008-08-31T16:44:00.020+02:00

Another peaceful and tranquil day at Germiston Lake........or maybe not

What's all the commotion ?

Surely not Katie ?

New coach Graham ?

John welcomes everyone to boot camp

Matt calls the shots

Everyone listens when the boss is talking........

The Open Girls (and Kate) get a briefing from Graham

The Open Girls get things going

Dominique shows how its done

No one can question Twanda's commitment

Sachan can see the end in sight

Lura gets strapped onto an Ergo for the first time

Our Father, who art in heaven.........................

Kate - looking cool & comfortable

Matt does his version of "The Thinker" whilst Scott & MC look on in awe

It's Jacinta's turn to show everyone how its done

Mateu demonstrates his version of the New Zealand "Haka"

Tshiamo feels the burn

The faces say it all......

No man left behind

Fazile, Tshiamo & Alex - catch their breath

Team talk (escape committee ?)

Kevin & friends pursuade Danielle that she really should listen to more Bob Marley

Brenna - looking like a pro

Renato shows off his skills with the blades

Twanda forgot to mention a minor matter regarding his lack of swimming experience

Look Mum, no hands - Jessica busy with her sculling test

Kevin gets some tips from John

John & Wesley pairing up for the first time

Kate gets ready to head out - Jacinta assists

What's this ? An Under 15 Girls Quad..................

Graham & Matt check the proceedings

Robyn & Dominique have to physically restrain an unruly Open boy (Scott)

Mathew prepares to bowl a googlie with his brothers cell phone...

Alexia waits her turn.

Matt & MC look on enviously as Tom shows off a hat from his Spring collection

The Open Boys (doing what Open Boys do)

Definitely a boy thing........

Claire and Danielle........BFF (Best Friends Forever)

Pictures courtesy of Rene Blackie (fresh from photographic course)

Thanks to everyone involved in the camp for making it such a memorable experience.

New Coach for Girls Crews

2008-08-26T13:06:00.002+02:00

The Rowing Parents Support Group welcomes new Girls coach, Graham Hood.

Graham has coached at both King Edwards and St. Johns and represented South Africa at Junior Worlds in 2003 and 2004.

Graham will assume responsibility for the U16 and Open Girls crews for the forthcoming season.

We wish Graham well during his time with Bishop Bavin Rowing.

National Indoor Rowing Challenge

2008-07-22T08:35:00.003+02:00

14 of our Rowers competed in the 2nd National Indoor Rowing Challenge held on Sat 19th July at the University of Johannesburg's Soweto campus.

Unfortunately the number of entries was down on last year, possibly due to the timing (Worlds/Olympics), but a good day was had by all and our rowers did us proud winning U14/U15/U16 & U18 Boys events and the U18 team event. It was great to see so many of our rowers beating their personal best times.

Congratulations to all the participants.

Pictures from Novices Day 16th July

2008-07-17T11:12:00.007+02:00

Mpumi Receives his SA Colours

2008-06-27T09:35:00.002+02:00

Mpumi receives congratulations from the Rector on the award of SA colours for rowing.

Mpumi will be rowing in the Mens U19 double at the World Championships to be held in Austria in July.

Congratulations from everyone at Bishop Bavin Rowing.

We are extremely proud of your achievements and wish you all the best at Worlds.

Images from Long Row 22nd June

2008-06-19T08:19:00.015+02:00

An early start for everyone - We fielded 4 quads - everyone arrived on time despite the early start and cold conditions.

The Open Boys quad off to a strong start - Matt had given each boat a "game plan" so they could use the route to practice various exercises.

The Open Girls are on their way (Kirsty shows off the latest head gear)

Kirsty without head gear - everyone looking comfortable

The Open Girls again - in good spirits

The Junior Girls quad (about now, they realised that there were still 24Km to go.....)

The Junior Girls again - 23.8Km to go

From the position of the blades you would never saythat this is the first time they have rowed together. Well done girls !!

Claire flys the flag for the Open Girls Quad

Isobella looks confident in the driver's seat of the Junior Girls quad

There were spectators at various points along the route which added a real "festival" feel

The birthday girls (Kate and Kiara)

Jacinta

Renato shows off his dream house

A boat load of Vietnamese refuges - obviously lost

A boat load of Bedfordview refugees ? (Richard, Chris Ashley and Josh)

Tyler wonders exactly what Isobella has passed back for lunch

The Open Girls minus a few layers of clothing

Claire at the helm of the Open Girls quad

Wesley wishes he had brought the doughnut ring
Scott demonstrates why discarding used chewing gum is a crimal offence in many countries

The Junior boys quad were so far ahead that we only caught up to them at the end
The Open Boys quad about to pass the Brady bunch

The morning quickly warmed up - hell in Africa hey !!

The Junior Boys at the finish line
You would never have guessd that they have just rowed 30Km !!The faces say it all (Ross and Alex)

Ryan relaxes after a long hard row.........yeh right !!

This is what it's all about...................

A big thank you to all the parents who helped organise this event (it really is appreciated) and congratulations to everyone who participated in the Long Row regatta.

Next year ? Who knows...................

Regatta Calendar 2008/09

2008-06-06T17:02:00.003+02:00

The regatta calendar for 2008/09 is as follows:

September 20th: All Ages - St. Stithians Regatta - (Wemmer/Roodeplaat)

October 4th: J16/19 - (Wemmer/Roodeplaat)

October 11th: All Ages - Wemmer Sprints (Wemmer Pan)

Oct 18th: All Ages - Jeppe Regatta - (Wemmer/Roodeplaat)

Oct 18th: All Ages - Natal Schools Champs - (Albert Falls)

Oct 25th: J16/J19 - St. Johns Regatta - (Wemmer/Roodeplaat)

Nov 1st & 2nd: Gauteng Schools Champs - (Wemmer/Roodeplaat)

Jan 17th: - Boys only Regatta - Jeppe Regatta - (Wemmer/Roodeplaat)

Jan 24th: Girls only Regatta - St. Andrews Regatta - (Wemmer/Roodeplaat)

Jan 30th & 31st: All Ages - VLC Regatta - (Germiston Lake)

Feb 7th & 8th: J16/J19 - Riviera Regatta - (Vaal River)

Feb 14th: J14/J15 - Bishop Bavin Regatta - (Wemmer/Roodeplaat)

Feb 21st: J16/J19 - Buffalo/Selborne Regatta - (East London)

Feb 21st: All ages regatta in Gauteng (Wemmer/Roodeplaat)

Feb 28th: J14/J15 - Parktown Regatta - (Wemmer/Roodeplaat)

Mar 6th to 8th: All Ages - SA Schools Champs - (Venue to be confirmed)

Mpumi Makes Team for Junior Worlds

2008-05-23T07:53:00.003+02:00

Congratulations to Mpumi Geza who has made the team to attend the Junior World Championships Rowing competition which will be held in Austria in July.

We are extremely proud of you and wish you all the very best.

Introduction to Rowing at Bishop Bavin School

2008-05-14T17:15:00.001+02:00

WHY ROWING ?

Rowing is far less visible than Rugby, Netball, Swimming etc and most parents have little or no experience of the sport, however there are many reasons why new pupils should consider rowing as their school sport.

The sport of rowing (at school level) demands a very high level of commitment, not only from the rowers themselves but from parents, coaches and staff who maintain and run the Club. Teamwork, dedication, self-discipline and persistence are an integral part of rowing whether novice or seasoned campaigner. The benefits to any child participating in such an environment are obvious. It is no accident that rowing is offered as a sport at most top schools and universities around the world.

Rowing also offers plenty of opportunity for pupils to mix and socialize with different age groups within the school as well as with their peers in other rowing schools in a safe and controlled environment.

Rowing is more than just a sport to the girls and boys who participate; it provides them with a sense of determination and strength of character.

WHY BISHOP BAVIN ?

Rowing was first introduced at Bishop Bavin in 1994 and despite the relatively small student body and limited resources the school has gone onto win the Melanie Rawbone trophy for best Co-Ed school at the SA Schools Championships 5 times over the past 6 years, and last season won the Derek Read trophy for best boys sculling school.

WHO CAN ROW ?

Rowing at Bishop Bavin is open to boys and girls from grade 6 upwards. All are welcome !!

SAFETY

Safety is a priority; therefore novice rowers are trained to complete a standard sculling test which is set out by the SA Schools Rowing Union (SASRU). This ensures that they are equipped to handle any eventuality whilst on the water. Our coaches are all highly skilled and some have competed at National level. Above all they have great passion for rowing and are committed to the sport.

THE ROWING SEASON

Fitness training for senior rowers takes place throughout the year; however the season begins in earnest with a camp in the last week of the August holidays and culminates in the SA Schools Championships in early March. This camp is great fun and not to be missed ! It allows coaches the opportunity to check fitness levels, assess potential and improve rowing skills.

TRAINING

Training is scheduled during the week at Germiston Lake where the school’s boat shed is located. The school bus takes the rowers to and from the lake, leaving after school and returning around 17:30. Land based training takes place in the gym and on the sports fields at school.

WANT TO KNOW MORE ?

A copy of the rowing club’s information and etiquette guide is available from the school public relations office or the Rowing Parents Support Group.

HOW TO JOIN ?

All newcomers who are interested in rowing ( from grade 6 upwards) can contact Mrs. Renee Blackie (082 721 2009) or the Chairperson of the rowing parents support group, Eric Donaldson (082 451 5056).

Farewell to our Matric Rowers

2008-04-01T08:13:00.004+02:00

The RPSG bids farewell to the Matric rowers and wishes them well in their final year.

This group of rowers, some of whom started their careers at U13 level, have witnessed the highs and lows of rowing at Bishop Bavin and we thank them sincerely for the legacy which they leave behind for others to follow.

The Matric rowers of 2008 are (left to right):

Stuart Gross

Kerry Elliot

Jarrod Brock

Mpumi Geza

Durian Du Plessis

Rene Vermaak

Nick Loake

Tammy Kester

Kagiso Mgwere

"Thrice happy is the nation that has a glorious history. Far better it is to dare mighty things, to win glorious triumphs, even though checkered by failure, than to take rank with those poor spirits who neither enjoy much nor suffer much, because they live in the gray twilight that knows neither victory nor defeat”

Theodore Roosevelt, The Strenuous Life

RPSG Committee 08/09 & Chairman's Address

2008-03-27T18:40:00.005+02:00

The new RPSG committe for 2008/09 season is as follows:

Chairperson: Eric Donaldson

Vice-Chairperson: Ray Gray Wilson

Secretary: Debbie Donaldson

Treasurer: Pam Gross

GROA Liason: Gaynor Du Toit

PR Coordinator: Kathy Scholfield

Fund Raising: Marion Gray Wilson

Member: Wayne Scholfield

Congratulations to everyone and good luck for the new season.

Chairperson's Address

I’d like to deviate from the traditional format of the Chairman’s report to focus less on the past and more on the challenges ahead - particularly as we move to elect a new committee.

At the outset of our term as a committee, we set ourselves the target to support Bishop Bavin rowing in three key areas viz Growth, Competitiveness & Sustainability.

Whilst the club has seen positive growth, ending the season with 35 active rowers, the loss of an unusually large number of senior rowers who are now in their final year, has reduced this number back to around 25.

However with the remaining rowers now more evenly dispersed through the age groups & with a much smaller number of our seniors moving to Matric in 2009, this is an ideal opportunity to provide continuity in future without incurring large expenses in terms of purchasing additional equipment.

I therefore believe that targeted recruitment, and increased representivity, should be viewed as priorities for the Club in the months leading up to the pre-season camp.

In regards to competitiveness, the Club’s results at Gauteng Champs, VLC Sprints and SA Champs need not be reviewed. What is however noteworthy when reflecting on the season is that each and every rower ended the season better than when they started, and - importantly - was able to have some fun along the way.

With the very real prospect of Roodeplaat being “unrowable” for large parts of the coming season, the nature of senior rowing (at least) is set to change and with this, opportunities arise for us to adapt faster and better than our competitors.

I touched on sustainability earlier in terms of recruitment; however I believe that we need to view sustainability in a much broader context.

In simple terms for rowing to be sustainable whether it be within the school or within the country it has to become more attractive. To become more attractive it has to be properly promoted and to be properly promoted, it needs to be properly funded.

This I see as the key challenge for the new committee in the coming year, and thankfully there are already a number of exciting ideas for the new committee can run with.

Such ambitious ideas are however almost certainly beyond the current capabilities and resources of the committee as it stands.

Therefore I would like to propose the expansion of the committee to include at least one position without a defined portfolio and possibly more in terms of the interest in serving for the new season.

Thereafter I envisage a situation where individual project teams are created which will recruit additional knowledge, skills and muscle from the parent body as and when required.

It is my genuine hope that the response to this call will be positive and result in greater involvement of the parent body in a role where they can make a real difference.

In closing I would like to extend my sincere thanks to the outgoing committee for their efforts over the past year. Through the various challenges that arose during the season, we have certainly grown together into what I believe to be a very effective unit - it has been a privilege to work within a group who are true to the Nike motto – Just do it.

Mpumi Geza makes Gauteng Junior Squad

2008-03-18T17:44:00.003+02:00

Congratulations to Mpumi for making the Gauteng junior squad and good luck during the selection for the National team in April !!

We are very proud of you.