All Oars called for Maadi 2023
The Maadi Cup 2023 is promising to be an exciting and memorable event, showcasing honest ‘hard-yakka’ and the sport of rowing.
By Benji Allen – Wintec – Te Pūkenga journalism student
The highly anticipated event, which brings together some of the best secondary school rowers from across New Zealand, is being held at the Mighty River Domain, Lake Karāpiro, Waikato.
The National Secondary Schools Rowing Championships, which includes the U18 Boys trophy the Maadi Cup, has been held annually since 1947.
COVID-19 restrictions have cut competitor numbers significantly since 2019 . This was a blow to many who consider Maadi Cup as a highlight of the secondary school rowing calendar.
“We’re excited to be hosting a full regatta. [NZ Rowing] feels the anticipation from all the schools involved” President of New Zealand Secondary Schools Rowing Association (NZSSRA), Janey Charlton said.
“It’s the North and South rivalry. [Maadi Cup] is the only time these schools get to crossover and test their ability against each other.”
President of New Zealand Secondary Schools Rowing Association (NZSSRA), Janey Charlton
This year over 2,000 rowers from more than 120 schools will compete for the coveted Maadi Cup trophy.
Charlton explained “It’s the North and South rivalry. [Maadi Cup] is the only time these schools get to crossover and test their ability against each other.”
The Hamilton Boys’ High School rowing team, winners of Maadi Cup last year, are expected to put up a strong defence. However, they will face stiff competition from other top schools, including St Paul’s Collegiate, Westlake Boys’ High School, and Christ’s College.
Rangi Ruru Girls has claimed top spot nine times since 1997 but with a full regatta they’ll be approaching this with extra determination.
The event is expected to attract thousands of spectators from around the country, who will be able to enjoy the picturesque surroundings and the excitement of the races.
According to Rowing New Zealand, the organisation responsible for the sport’s governance and development in the country, Maadi Cup is a vital event for the development of rowing in New Zealand. It provides an opportunity for young rowers to showcase their skills and passion for the sport, as well as promoting healthy competition and sportsmanship.
“Not every school can enter an eight, or even a team of four, but most schools in the country participate in the single scull event. By supporting the under 17 age group, Aon are encouraging capable and determined young athletes to have the opportunity to put their best foot (or oar) forward” – Rowing NZ website.
The Mighty River Domain is known for its calm waters and ideal rowing conditions. It boasts a world-class rowing facility, and previously hosted numerous international rowing events, including the World Rowing Championships in 2010.
Maadi Cup also has a rich history, with many notable athletes and coaches having competed in the event over the years. Olympians such as Hamish Bond, Mahe Drysdale, and Eric Murray all competed in the Maadi Cup during their secondary school years.
The event has also produced numerous successful coaches, including Dick Tonks, who has coached several New Zealand Olympic medalists.
The event will run over five days, from Tuesday 28 March to Saturday 1 April, with the finals taking place on the last day.
The Maadi Cup 2023 is promising to be an exciting and memorable event, showcasing honest ‘hard-yakka’ and the sport of rowing.
As the countdown to the finals events begin, all eyes will be on young rowers from around the country when they come together to compete for the ultimate prize in secondary school rowing, Maadi Cup.
