Top rower turned boat builder lends a hand at Maadi

Boats, as well as rowers, are pushed hard at the Aon Maadi Cup, and wear and tear can be plentiful. 

Were it not for the services of Franz Madritsch, some of the boats would remain damaged and in some cases unusable.

“I’m looking to service everybody; many rowers and clubs could get in trouble so we help,” said Madritsch, who is based in the Wintech stall.

“It’s not just about promoting my business, it’s about servicing the community which is very important.”

With boats listing as high as $19,000.00 in price, maintenance is challenging and accidents can happen.

“Little holes appear when put on the racks and some parts can get lost in transportation,” Madritcsh said.

“We carry spare parts, so they come here if they need help.”

A former international rower himself, Madritsch is no stranger to the skill that goes into the sport, after representing Switzerland at junior and under-23 level.

A two time national at junior level in soccer, Madritsch picked up the sport of rowing one afternoon and never looked back.

 “I found a true sport in rowing. When you line up at the start, it will show at the end if you are honest to yourself and to the sport or not.”

Madritsch was offered the chance to return to the sport he loved when he moved to New Zealand in 1995, and has been involved in rowing for 43 years.

“I import rowing boats and kayaks. Being an ex-rower, I’m backing up my product here at the regattas.”

Rob McCarthy, another stallholder at the Maadi regatta, believes that Madritsch is crucial to the cup.

“He brings a lot of support, for the kids to get their boats repaired, he’s always obliging to do it, and he never sends people away,” said McCarthy.

With the Aon Maadi Cup entering the final stretch, Madritsch has not picked a clear favourite.

“The Maadi Cup is unique, this is an iconic event and possibly the biggest in the southern hemisphere,” said Madritsch.

“There is going to be favourites but I think everybody is a winner here.”