As the final weeks of winter have given way to spring, September has marked a crucial turning point for Mercantile. The atmosphere at the boathouse has shifted from the heavy, low-rate work of winter to the sharp intensity of preparation, and the collective focus is now fixed on the head racing season just ahead.
On the Water: Converting Fitness into Speed
I’m exceptionally pleased with the energy and commitment I’ve witnessed across all programs. Our athletes, from High-Performance through to Masters, have been putting in tremendous effort as we transition into the final phase of preparation. The long, hard work of the past months is now being honed into raw speed. Our senior crews are pushing selection limits, and training sessions—including the highly successful morning sessions at Carrum—are well attended, allowing our athletes to practice in premium conditions. To support our future success, particularly in light of new national guidelines, we’re strategically investing in equipment. New high-performance pairs have been purchased, and we’re working to acquire more to strengthen our sculling depth, which is a vital area for athlete development.
Junior Program Momentum
The positive energy within our Junior Development Program is undeniable, especially following that fantastic win by our Women’s B Grade Quad Scull at the Saltwater Challenge. The athletes are showing greater confidence and technical consistency, which is exactly what we want to see. The club is fully committed to nurturing this potential by ensuring we provide dedicated resources and excellent coaching support to our emerging talent as they progress.
Club Life, Logistics, and Looking Ahead
Thank you to everyone who supported the Club Shop! Our recent sales have been highly successful, and we’re working on a new limited-edition training zooty design. Regarding our facilities, we are undertaking minor maintenance, including working on the update to our Olympic Board to properly honour our history. We’re also grateful to those members who have offered in-kind support, like the generous offer to paint the bar area, helping us keep the boathouse in top shape.
Finally, please mark your calendars. The Annual General Meeting (AGM) is scheduled for 6:00 PM on Thursday, November 13th.
The dedication shown by our athletes, coaches, and volunteers sets us up for a brilliant season ahead. Let’s carry this momentum to the starting line!
Alex Clarke – Captain
