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Photo Finishes and Rising Stakes on Day Four at Lake Ruataniwha
With finals spots on the line, athletes rose to the occasion in a day filled with photo finishes, composure under pressure, and performances that will carry momentum into the final days of Maadi 2026.
Another day of high-intensity racing unfolded on Lake Ruataniwha, with crews delivering tight finishes and standout performances as the regatta edged closer to finals.
Eyes turned to the forecast early, with weather systems affecting much of the country expected to move toward Twizel. For now, though, ideal racing conditions held firm for day four of the 2026 Maadi Regatta.
Racing opened with the final quarterfinals of the programme in the Girls Under 18 Single Sculls. Crews faced a demanding schedule, with progression to semifinals or C and D finals later in the morning.
Cashmere High School’s Eleri Clare, coached by Matt Allen and Imogen Boxall, continued her impressive form throughout the week. The reigning Under 17 champion showed composure and class, progressing confidently through to the A Final and posting a time of 8:07.83. Her fast, clean starts and technically polished sculling have set the tone in each of her races. Earlier finals saw Wakatipu High School’s Amy Paterson and Avonside Girls’ High School’s Kate Orchard claim the C and D finals respectively.
Cashmere High School single sculler Eleri Clare Photo: Sharron Bennett Photography
As attention shifted to the Boys Under 18 Coxed Quadruple Sculls semifinals, the pressure intensified with only the top four crews progressing to Saturday’s A Final. In the first semi-final, St Paul’s Collegiate produced a composed and well-executed race, leading from the start to finish as the fastest qualifiers. Marlborough Boys’ College held off a late push from Tauranga Boys’ College to secure their place, with Tauranga heading to the B Final.
The second semi-final showcased two of the country’s strong sculling programmes, with Whanganui High School and Wakatipu High School going head-to-head. Wakatipu led through the middle stages, but Whanganui’s strong build and powerful final 250 metres saw them take the race on the line. With other top sculling schools St Peter’s School and Sacred Heart College (Auckland) also progressing, the final is shaping as one to watch.
All the excitement of the coxswains race later in the day gave cox’s a chance to test their skills with an oar in hand. Photo: Rowing Picture Show
The Girls Under 18 Pair semifinals delivered high-quality racing. Waikato Diocesan School’s Kate Slyfield and Amy Bryant set the benchmark as fastest qualifiers, posting a time of 7:47.72. Epsom Girls Grammar’s Jessica Walkinshaw and Imogen Wallis confirmed their contender status in the second semi-final, winning in 7:49.69.
In the Girls Under 18 Novice Double Sculls, Geraldine High School’s Charlee Cooper and Justina Courage impressed to qualify for the A Final in their Schools first Maadi appearance. The second semi-final produced one of many photo finishes across the day, with Timaru Girls’ High School showing determination to edge into fourth place ahead of Macleans College.
New to Maadi Geraldine High School rowers Charlee Cooper and Justina Courage qualified for the A final of the Girls Under 18 Novice Double Sculls. Photo: Rowing Picture show
Tight margins became a defining feature of the day. In the Boys Under 17 Double Sculls, the first semi-final saw the top three crews separated by just 0.21 seconds, while the second semi-final mirrored the intensity, with the top four finishing within 0.41 seconds. The stage is set for an exceptional final.
Shirley Boys High School crew of Domenico Fricker and Reuben Saggers progressing to the A final of the Boys Under 17 Double Sculls Photo: Sharron Bennett Photography
The Boys Under 16 Double Sculls delivered more drama, with Onslow College narrowly edging Whakatāne High School on the line. In the second semi-final, Rangiora High School surged late to push Hamilton Boys’ High School out of A Final contention.
As the final races of the day came down the course, the weather began to shift, with rain arriving over Lake Ruataniwha - a timely reminder of the changeable conditions that may play a role in the days ahead.
Beyond the racing, Maadi is also showcasing the global reach of the sport.
Most athletes at the Maadi Regatta have travelled some distance to be in Twizel - but for some, the journey from home is that little bit further.
This year, Whanganui High School has welcomed three international students into their programme: Milo Weber and David Strobel from Germany, and Adéla Slanářová from Prague.
Coach Axel Dickinson has enjoyed watching both their rowing and their experience in New Zealand unfold. “They’ve loved it. It’s such a cool way for them to see the country, and they’ve done really well with their rowing too. When they first arrived, I thought we’d put together a German double - they were all in. They went on to win the novice double at nationals and were also part of the novice quad.”
What makes their achievement even more impressive is that none of the three had rowed before arriving. “David comes from a ballet and dance background, Milo has a really natural aptitude for the sport, and Adéla has done athletics - she’s got great body awareness and is technically strong. They’ve fitted into our programme so well. Everyone loves them. We’ve had exchange students before, but they’ve usually been experienced rowers, so having complete novices is quite unique.”
Beyond performance, their presence has added something special to the wider squad.
“It brings an extra layer to the programme, you feel like a bit of a global citizen. We’ve had our athletes travel overseas too, it opens doors for everyone.”
“I hope some of them continue with rowing, or at least remember New Zealand for some really good times. Your novice season is really special, let alone being able to do it in a foreign country”.
St Margaret’s College has also embraced the international flavour of Maadi, with two exchange students - Audrina Stewart and Indya Doolin - joining their 51-strong squad from St Margaret’s Anglican Girls School in Brisbane. The exchange between the two schools has been running for over 20 years.
Audrina and Indya are part of the St Margaret’s #2 crew that has qualified for the Girls Under 16 Coxed Eight A Final - made even more special as it marks the first time the school has placed two crews into the A Final in this event. For Indya, it’s an especially proud moment, having taken up sweep rowing for the first time this season.
Support from home has remained strong despite the distance.
“Mum and Dad have been getting up early to watch the livestream, and our rowing friends have been checking results and cheering us on.”
Exchange students Audrina and Indya are part of the St Margaret’s College Girls Under 16 Coxed Eight #2 crew. Photo: Rowing Picture Show
St Margaret’s College Rowing Manager Trudy Keys says the exchange works seamlessly with the differing seasons. “When the girls return home, they head straight into their season. In Queensland, girls row through winter and boys in summer, so the timing works really well. We also send two of our girls to Brisbane during our winter.”
Adding to the international mix, St Margaret’s College also have American coach Gabby Babin.
“I arrived at the same time as the exchange students, so it was nice not being the only one new to the country,” she said. “I rowed Division 1 at Clemson University, and after graduating I wasn’t sure what was next - but I knew I loved rowing. Coaching overseas felt like a great opportunity, and I’ve really loved my time here.”
And for one international athlete, this Maadi marks a historic milestone.
Frida Bischof, from Frankfurt, Germany, is representing Nayland College and becomes the first athlete from the school to compete at a Maadi Regatta since 2018. Having been in New Zealand for six months, she will return home in July.
Frida had previous rowing experience before arriving, and has spent her time training with the Nelson Rowing Club out of the Nelson Marina. Reflecting on the differences, she notes:
“In Germany we do a lot more small boats - singles and doubles - and race over 1000 metres. I knew about Maadi before coming, but I didn’t realise how big it was. I’m having such a good time.”
Frida Bischof from Nayland College competing in the Girls Under 18 Single Sculls at Maadi Regatta. Photo: Sharron Bennett Photography
From Europe to Australia and across New Zealand, these athletes are adding a truly global dimension to Maadi 2026 - a reminder that while the racing is fiercely competitive here at Maadi, rowing experiences can reach far beyond the finish line.
With finals on our doorstep, the regatta moves into its most anticipated phase. School pride, preparation, and opportunity all converge as crews prepare for the biggest races of their season.
Full results are available at www.rowit.nz
Livestream coverage available at https://rowingnz.kiwi/livestream/ or https://www.youtube.com/@rowingnz/streams
Liz Inglis
Liz Inglis is a content creator and photographer based in Christchurch. As well as being a rowing parent, she is also a masters rower for the Avon Rowing Club.
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Photo Finishes and Rising Stakes on Day Four at Lake Ruataniwha
With finals spots on the line, athletes rose to the occasion in a day filled with photo finishes, composure under pressure, and performances that will carry momentum into the final days of Maadi 2026.
Another day of high-intensity racing unfolded on Lake Ruataniwha, with crews delivering tight finishes and standout performances as the regatta edged closer to finals.
Eyes turned to the forecast early, with weather systems affecting much of the country expected to move toward Twizel. For now, though, ideal racing conditions held firm for day four of the 2026 Maadi Regatta.
Racing opened with the final quarterfinals of the programme in the Girls Under 18 Single Sculls. Crews faced a demanding schedule, with progression to semifinals or C and D finals later in the morning.
Cashmere High School’s Eleri Clare, coached by Matt Allen and Imogen Boxall, continued her impressive form throughout the week. The reigning Under 17 champion showed composure and class, progressing confidently through to the A Final and posting a time of 8:07.83. Her fast, clean starts and technically polished sculling have set the tone in each of her races. Earlier finals saw Wakatipu High School’s Amy Paterson and Avonside Girls’ High School’s Kate Orchard claim the C and D finals respectively.
Cashmere High School single sculler Eleri Clare Photo: Sharron Bennett Photography
As attention shifted to the Boys Under 18 Coxed Quadruple Sculls semifinals, the pressure intensified with only the top four crews progressing to Saturday’s A Final. In the first semi-final, St Paul’s Collegiate produced a composed and well-executed race, leading from the start to finish as the fastest qualifiers. Marlborough Boys’ College held off a late push from Tauranga Boys’ College to secure their place, with Tauranga heading to the B Final.
The second semi-final showcased two of the country’s strong sculling programmes, with Whanganui High School and Wakatipu High School going head-to-head. Wakatipu led through the middle stages, but Whanganui’s strong build and powerful final 250 metres saw them take the race on the line. With other top sculling schools St Peter’s School and Sacred Heart College (Auckland) also progressing, the final is shaping as one to watch.
All the excitement of the coxswains race later in the day gave cox’s a chance to test their skills with an oar in hand. Photo: Rowing Picture Show
The Girls Under 18 Pair semifinals delivered high-quality racing. Waikato Diocesan School’s Kate Slyfield and Amy Bryant set the benchmark as fastest qualifiers, posting a time of 7:47.72. Epsom Girls Grammar’s Jessica Walkinshaw and Imogen Wallis confirmed their contender status in the second semi-final, winning in 7:49.69.
In the Girls Under 18 Novice Double Sculls, Geraldine High School’s Charlee Cooper and Justina Courage impressed to qualify for the A Final in their Schools first Maadi appearance. The second semi-final produced one of many photo finishes across the day, with Timaru Girls’ High School showing determination to edge into fourth place ahead of Macleans College.
New to Maadi Geraldine High School rowers Charlee Cooper and Justina Courage qualified for the A final of the Girls Under 18 Novice Double Sculls. Photo: Rowing Picture show
Tight margins became a defining feature of the day. In the Boys Under 17 Double Sculls, the first semi-final saw the top three crews separated by just 0.21 seconds, while the second semi-final mirrored the intensity, with the top four finishing within 0.41 seconds. The stage is set for an exceptional final.
Shirley Boys High School crew of Domenico Fricker and Reuben Saggers progressing to the A final of the Boys Under 17 Double Sculls Photo: Sharron Bennett Photography
The Boys Under 16 Double Sculls delivered more drama, with Onslow College narrowly edging Whakatāne High School on the line. In the second semi-final, Rangiora High School surged late to push Hamilton Boys’ High School out of A Final contention.
As the final races of the day came down the course, the weather began to shift, with rain arriving over Lake Ruataniwha - a timely reminder of the changeable conditions that may play a role in the days ahead.
Beyond the racing, Maadi is also showcasing the global reach of the sport.
Most athletes at the Maadi Regatta have travelled some distance to be in Twizel - but for some, the journey from home is that little bit further.
This year, Whanganui High School has welcomed three international students into their programme: Milo Weber and David Strobel from Germany, and Adéla Slanářová from Prague.
Coach Axel Dickinson has enjoyed watching both their rowing and their experience in New Zealand unfold. “They’ve loved it. It’s such a cool way for them to see the country, and they’ve done really well with their rowing too. When they first arrived, I thought we’d put together a German double - they were all in. They went on to win the novice double at nationals and were also part of the novice quad.”
What makes their achievement even more impressive is that none of the three had rowed before arriving. “David comes from a ballet and dance background, Milo has a really natural aptitude for the sport, and Adéla has done athletics - she’s got great body awareness and is technically strong. They’ve fitted into our programme so well. Everyone loves them. We’ve had exchange students before, but they’ve usually been experienced rowers, so having complete novices is quite unique.”
Beyond performance, their presence has added something special to the wider squad.
“It brings an extra layer to the programme, you feel like a bit of a global citizen. We’ve had our athletes travel overseas too, it opens doors for everyone.”
“I hope some of them continue with rowing, or at least remember New Zealand for some really good times. Your novice season is really special, let alone being able to do it in a foreign country”.
St Margaret’s College has also embraced the international flavour of Maadi, with two exchange students - Audrina Stewart and Indya Doolin - joining their 51-strong squad from St Margaret’s Anglican Girls School in Brisbane. The exchange between the two schools has been running for over 20 years.
Audrina and Indya are part of the St Margaret’s #2 crew that has qualified for the Girls Under 16 Coxed Eight A Final - made even more special as it marks the first time the school has placed two crews into the A Final in this event. For Indya, it’s an especially proud moment, having taken up sweep rowing for the first time this season.
Support from home has remained strong despite the distance.
“Mum and Dad have been getting up early to watch the livestream, and our rowing friends have been checking results and cheering us on.”
Exchange students Audrina and Indya are part of the St Margaret’s College Girls Under 16 Coxed Eight #2 crew. Photo: Rowing Picture Show
St Margaret’s College Rowing Manager Trudy Keys says the exchange works seamlessly with the differing seasons. “When the girls return home, they head straight into their season. In Queensland, girls row through winter and boys in summer, so the timing works really well. We also send two of our girls to Brisbane during our winter.”
Adding to the international mix, St Margaret’s College also have American coach Gabby Babin.
“I arrived at the same time as the exchange students, so it was nice not being the only one new to the country,” she said. “I rowed Division 1 at Clemson University, and after graduating I wasn’t sure what was next - but I knew I loved rowing. Coaching overseas felt like a great opportunity, and I’ve really loved my time here.”
And for one international athlete, this Maadi marks a historic milestone.
Frida Bischof, from Frankfurt, Germany, is representing Nayland College and becomes the first athlete from the school to compete at a Maadi Regatta since 2018. Having been in New Zealand for six months, she will return home in July.
Frida had previous rowing experience before arriving, and has spent her time training with the Nelson Rowing Club out of the Nelson Marina. Reflecting on the differences, she notes:
“In Germany we do a lot more small boats - singles and doubles - and race over 1000 metres. I knew about Maadi before coming, but I didn’t realise how big it was. I’m having such a good time.”
Frida Bischof from Nayland College competing in the Girls Under 18 Single Sculls at Maadi Regatta. Photo: Sharron Bennett Photography
From Europe to Australia and across New Zealand, these athletes are adding a truly global dimension to Maadi 2026 - a reminder that while the racing is fiercely competitive here at Maadi, rowing experiences can reach far beyond the finish line.
With finals on our doorstep, the regatta moves into its most anticipated phase. School pride, preparation, and opportunity all converge as crews prepare for the biggest races of their season.
Full results are available at www.rowit.nz
Livestream coverage available at https://rowingnz.kiwi/livestream/ or https://www.youtube.com/@rowingnz/streams
Liz Inglis
Liz Inglis is a content creator and photographer based in Christchurch. As well as being a rowing parent, she is also a masters rower for the Avon Rowing Club.
