Rowers delighted to don the big V

FOUR of Ballarat’s rowers have each prepared two uniforms for this week’s Australian Masters Rowing Championships on Lake Wendouree.

Ballarat City’s Andrew Leehane and Kathy Lloyd, and Wendouree-Ballarat’s Lee Martin and Bec Dwyer will not only race for their local clubs at the major national regatta, they’ll compete in the iconic Victorian navy-blue zooties with the big white V, having been selected for the state squad.

Lloyd is rowing in the Victorian women’s eight for the second year, alongside first-time qualifier Bec Dwyer, who recently returned to the sport after an 18-year break.

Leehane will sit in the state men’s eight, and Martin in Victoria’s women’s quad scull.

“It makes us very proud to represent Victoria at a very high level, and represent our clubs, who we thank for their support. It will be very special,” Leehane said.

“It’s great for Ballarat people to represent the city, whether they be from Wendouree or Ballarat City. We work together as one in our Victorian uniform.”

Martin said Lake Wendouree is the city’s “jewel” and is pleased more athletes from across the country will get to experience the feeling of being out on the water in Ballarat.

“It’s always good to row on your home course. Who wouldn’t want to row here? It’s unique and it’s got history,” she said.

“On the water it’s pretty competitive, but there’s a great sense of camaraderie and great friendships off the water.”

Lloyd agreed the friendly nature of both the local and Victorian masters rowing scenes is one of the best parts about being involved.

“The fantastic thing about masters rowing is it’s a community,” she said. “Rowing in a state crew is hard work, but it’s all done with a great team.”

The selection process for the state crews began in January, and since qualifying, the rowers have been training with the squad on the Yarra River in Melbourne.