FROM THE HEADMASTER

I would like to extend a very warm welcome to families and friends of the GPS community to today’s Brisbane Boys’ College Regatta. We look forward once more to coming together to foster a spirit of fellowship, mutual support and assistance among our schools.

Rowing is a unique sport which often becomes a lifelong passion for those who participate. We only have to look at the number of parent and Old Boy crews who so enthusiastically take to the water each season to know this to be true. Rowing has had a long and proud history at BBC going back one hundred and three years to when the College celebrated its first Head of the River success in 1919.

Rowing is often described as the ultimate team sport as it requires a precise and co-ordinated effort in timing, technique, and strength from all members of the crew. It develops each participant’s technical skills, fitness and teamwork under the care and expertise of dedicated staff and passionate parents.

Rowing also develops grit and determination among crew members and the tenacity to persist in the face of duress. It requires a disciplined approach to training, time management and goal setting. These are important life skills which can benefit boys in all areas of endeavour, now and into the future.

An anonymous rower once observed, “Not everybody wins, and certainly not everybody wins all the time. But once you get into your boat and push off, tie into your shoes and boot stretchers, then ‘lean on the oars’, you have indeed won far more than those who have never tried.” Best wishes to all boys in all crews who strive to give of their best.

It is my pleasure and privilege to welcome all crews, staff, parents, and supporters to today’s regatta. I wish all crews the best of luck.

MR ANDRE CASSON HEADMASTER