After a very wet start to the day, the sun appeared and set the scene for a great afternoon down at SUBC’s new, temporary training center – The university of NSW boat sheds. After some light refreshments, SUBC club captain Terrence Alfred welcomed the guests and invited distinguished guest, Dr. Michael Spence the Vice Chancellor of Sydney University to introduce the first boat – The Adam Spencer. Dr. Spence gave a funny and witty introduction of Adam, exclaiming that the boat’s green shoes appropriately suited Adam’s personality. Adam responded classically by denying the association and instead likening himself to the Empacher four’s “sleek, dynamic, and fast characteristics”.
Mr. Chris Noel introduced the next boat – The Andy Sneddon. Unfortunately Andy passed away last year, but his 4 children Ian, Phil, Janette and Robert proudly christened the second Empacher four. Ian retold a comical story of his father racing at the 1930 intervarsity event on the Swan River. All visiting crews were overcome by the Fremantle Doctor in the finals, while the locals, with their high gunwales, easily pushed through the waves without taking on water.
Bruce Ross, president of Sydney University Sport for over 20 continuous years proudly christened his brand new Sykes pair, as did Dominic Bressan – former recent lightweight rower 1997-2003.
The final boat, another Sykes pair, was The Marty Rabjohns. The former SUBC director of rowing made huge contributions to the boat club and had a unique coaching style through use of his international coxing ability. Marty and his fiancé Emily are getting married next month. From SUBC, we wish them the very best in their future together! After the formalities, SUBC dedicated mothers Julie Playfair, Rebecca Wilson, Jo Wheatley and team, who never cease to amaze, organized a delicious light luncheon for the guests. We are very appreciative of their efforts.
Former SUBC member, and continuous supporter John Boutlbee was scheduled to have a Skyes pair named after him, but unfortunately was overseas and could not attend the event. We look forward to christening his boat on another occasion.
The Boat Club’s fleet purchases are made possible through the support of our alumni. If you are an SUBC alumni and can assist us to maintain our fleet please contact our President, Tom McCann on 0439 841 976
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