We’re in the thick of the domestic competition season, and there is action on all fronts for Mercantile. This months Captain’s report brings a mix bag of news, bolstered by reports of positive progress that are ensuring strong momentum for us all over the next few months.
Remembering and Looking Forward
The club acknowledges the recent and sudden loss of Melbourne Grammar School student, Ed Millear. The MGS community has communicated their need for privacy and space to process their loss during this difficult time. Mercantile Rowing Club offers our condolences to the Millear family, and our support to the MGS community.
If anyone is in need of counselling relating to this event, Mercantile supporter and psychologist Alex Beaconsfield has joined the team at The Mind Room in Collingwood and has offered to connect members with the right support to successfully navigate these recent events.
Follow the link here to learn more: https://themindroom.com.au/our-people#grief-loss
Alex Beaconsfield contact: [email protected]
The club has also responded to this event by auditing our defibrillator and first aid equipment, which have all been serviced and deemed ready and fit for use. Moreover, first aid training for all Mercantile Coaches is being organised to ensure ongoing member safety.
Boat Christening Ceremony
A Boat Christening Ceremony will be held on Thursday, March 13th at 6:30 PM. Details regarding the boat names will be revealed at the event, so please come along and be part of this special occasion to recognise the service and achievements of our honourees.
High-Performance Rowing – On the Water and Beyond
Our athletes faced challenging conditions at the Nagambie Regatta, demonstrating resilience and determination. Selectors are currently working to finalise crew combinations for upcoming regattas, focusing on optimising performance and providing opportunities for all.
Additionally, we saw strong performances at the Australian Henley Regatta over the weekend from all crews, demonstrating tenacity and grit in tough Yarra conditions. Special mentions go out to the FB8+, MB8+, FO8+, FClub8+ and Sophie Reinehr (FO1x & FO8+) for winning their respective events. Building on this success, we look forward to a strong showing from all club members at States this weekend, and Nationals in the coming weeks.
Lastly, planning is underway for potential international tours in Winter 2025, with the aim of providing balanced and exciting opportunities for all athletes to pursue between the seasons.
Social Scene – Save the Dates!
Planning has commenced for the Scotch Mercantile regatta, so if you are interested in getting involved with the delivery of this Mercantile lead event please contact either myself at [email protected] or Jordan at [email protected].
Guerin Club and Junior Development – Strong Performances and Future Focus
The Guerin Club continues to perform well in the grade premiership, with a number of athletes in the mix for top honours at the Rowing Victoria Awards event later this year. We congratulate all members on their efforts. Lastly, a new Junior Performance subcommittee has been established to strengthen communication with junior rowers and gather feedback on training programs and equipment access. This initiative underscores the club’s commitment to developing young talent and ensuring their needs are met in the collaborative manner that defines the Mercantile Rowing Club culture.
Thank you for reading and I look forward to bringing you updates from around the club when the next edition of the captains report comes in March.
Kind regards,
Alex Clarke
Club Captain
