Parents a driving force behind the Maadi Cup

At the back of the Wanganui Collegiate rowing tent, Alix and Mark Taylor are hard at work keeping the rowers fed.

For Angus Taylor however, they are more than just helpers, they are his parents.

It is a special feeling to have them by his side as he competes in his last year of rowing.

“It is a big deal, I’ve got friends with parents who don’t get to see anything,” said Taylor.

“So, I’m in the race, but they are equally in the race supporting me and watching me and it’s a big deal to have them out there watching me.”

Other parents have also travelled to support their children.

“All the parents are always helping out with making pasta and buns so it’s mean as.”

His father, Mark, echoed his thoughts.

“It is a team effort here, it is not really one person but it is an example of what is going on,” Mark said.

Training for the regatta comes with sacrifices for both the parents and students.

Celeste Krynicki of Baradene College is attending her first Maadi Cup as a parent and believes that the parent’s part is just as important.

“We have to sacrifice heaps, keeping your child motivated and getting them up early for the early morning starts,” said Krynicki.

She believes that it is all worth it.

“They get heaps out of it, they are around each other for a long time so they get lots of social skills.

“I love seeing how all the girls seem to get together and support each other.”

&Co.