The Queensland Rowing Community pushed off the pontoon together on the 22nd February for another session when the King’s Cup supporters luncheons were relaunched at the Tattersall’s Club in Brisbane’s CBD.
(See the earlier Post for the Invitation/Announcement).
Rowing enthusiasts old and young gathered in what could easily have been mistaken for any decade in recent memory such was the turn-out of past oarsmen and women. Were it not for the conspicuous presence of the 2019 Queensland King’s Cup squad in attendance the function resembled the famed luncheons of nearly 2 decades ago when the Queensland Rowing Community first committed to supporting efforts to win Australian Rowing’s ultimate prize.
John Wylie, Chairperson of Sports Australia addressed a parochial crowd making pointed remarks about the passion and success of Queenslanders’ and their contribution to Australian sports, however not straying too far from controversy when happily accepting questions about the current structure of sports funding and centralisation of elite programs.
Ray Ebert lent a familiar face and voice to proceedings leaving little question that Queensland was the new home of the Voice of Rowing.
Many notable attendees added to the significance of the event including members of the recent Queensland Penrith Cup dynasty, Olympians from the past 5 decades and Queensland’s favorite USA World Champion oarsman.
The organisation of the event was a remarkable achievement for the small dedicated group of volunteers, with special mention for their efforts going to Trish Burton and Gary Merritt, particularly considering the sudden illness experienced by stalwart Bruce Greenland in the lead up to the day.
Having Bruce attend and in such good health was a highlight of a great afternoon.
Many Thanks to all that came and supported the re-ignition of the dormant flame that is Queensland’s drought-breaking efforts to win the King’s Cup. Thanks again to the King’s Cup supporters committee, Tattersall’s Club and the coaches and athletes of the 2019 Queensland Rowing Team.
The next luncheon is being planned for November 2019 when the event will reflect the desire and commitment of the Queensland Rowing Community to realize success across the Interstate Regatta when we come together for the inaugural King’s and Queen’s Cups Supporters Luncheon.