Western Australia rowing builds bridges with Asia through sport
Rowing WA is strengthening international ties and showcasing our State as a premier rowing destination through its Asian Engagement Program.
This month two elite crews, a men and a women’s eight, are representing Western Australia at the prestigious Hengqin Regatta in China’s Guangdong province.
Mark Easterbrook, Rowing WA’s Asian Engagement Project Officer said talent has been drawn from Fremantle, UWA, Swan River, and Curtin University rowing clubs.
“We’ve certainly got some very high performance athletes here,” he said.
“We’re going to be up against clubs such as Harvard and Yale.”
The initiative is supported by a three-year grant from the WA Government, assisting with flights and accommodation for outbound squads and inbound visits by Asian athletes.
“It’s been a fantastic opportunity to promote WA as a rowing destination,” Easterbrook said.
“We’re creating ambassadors out of our younger generation and promoting WA through a common sport. It’s about building relationships and enjoying the culture we share.”