Ezekiel’s rowing rise continues

for his age also helped him to get ahead of the pack.

North St Marys teenager Ezekiel Pratt has rowed his way to yet another accolade, adding Penrith Valley Sports Foundation Junior Sports Star to his list of achievements.

The talented 14-year-old has only been rowing for a touch over 12 months but is already starting to earn recognition for his strong start on the water. Earlier this year, Ezekiel tried his luck at the Taree Regatta, winning a whopping six events. He also competed at the NSW Rowing Championships at the Sydney International Regatta Centre in February, taking home a gold medal in the U16 Men’s Single Scull.

What makes Ezekiel’s achievements so remarkable is that he only picked up the sport last year after jumping on a rowing machine at his house.

“I took up rowing because my Dad used to do it and got me interested,” Ezekiel told the Weekender in February.

“I started on a rowing machine at home. I was on it for a couple of months before getting in touch with Nepean Rowing Club and signing up to their Learn to Row program.”

With rowing in his blood thanks to his Dad Ben, Ezekiel took to the sport with relative ease. Being quite tall and strong

Ezekiel trains on average eight hours a week, with four or five sessions on the water.

“I like rowing, I like going fast,” he said.

“The threat of falling in is more interesting than just sitting there going nowhere.

“Rowing lets me use my strength without damaging anything.”

While Ezekiel has started his rowing journey with a bang, he knows there’s plenty of work to do if he wants to rise the ranks and truly make it in the sport.

“My plan is to do my very best,” he said.

“I’m not sure how far I’ll go, but my plan is to keep rowing and just enjoy myself.”

With the beautiful Nepean River right on our doorstep, Ezekiel said everyone should give rowing a try for some added fitness and fun.

“I would recommend it. Rowing is lots of fun and I do like it,” he said.

“I’ve made friends with all the rowers at my club and even some people who aren’t.”

Ezekiel Pratt’s Junior Sports Star Award is all thanks to sponsor St Marys Leagues Club.

If you or you know someone who has achieved in their chosen sport, send in your nomination to Penrith Valley Sports Foundation.

Nomination forms are available at www. pvsf.org.au.