St Joseph's Nudgee College

March 18, 2011

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The St Joseph’s Nudgee College Rowing Shed created history at the 2011 Head of the River taking out the 1st VIII race and winning the Old Boys’ Cup for the first time.

The success marked a milestone in Nudgee College’s rowing history with the shed winning the Champion School Old Boys’ Cup for the first time in their 12 year history, as well as their third Open 1st VIII O’Connor Cup, at Lake Kawana on 12 March.

The Nudgee College shed achieved six first places, two seconds, one third and three fourth places out of 12 competitive races to score a total of 108 points, with closest rival Churchie finishing 14 points behind on 94.

“It was a historic victory for Nudgee College and I’m very proud of everyone involved. To win by such a margin was a lot more than we expected and demonstrates what a commanding club we now are”, said Director of Rowing Mr Christian Oneto.

On the championship day, the Year 10 quads and Open VIIIs rowed to prediction after a fantastic season of lead up regattas but it was the Year 11 1st, 2nd and 3rd VIIIs, all seeded third for their races, who lifted to produce straight wins.

The Head of the River was the culmination of lots of hard work by athletes, coaches and parent supporters alike. To be able to continue rowing after the devastating floods which caused significant infrastructural and logistical challenges, albeit out of a sheep paddock at Dohles Rocks, made the victory even sweeter agreed Mr Oneto and Captain of Boats and 1st VIII rower Tom Moloney.

“It is an honour to be part of history in the inaugural year of winning the Old Boys Cup”, said Tom.

“It was a great performance by the whole shed and the support we had at the Lake was excellent.”

The Director of Rowing had many people to thank on behalf of the club, including Dohles Rocks property owners Colin and Lyn Fopp, Danny O’Reilly and the team of parents behind him, as well as all the coaches and athletes.

The Boys GPS Head of the River has been contested since 1918 with the Open 1st VIII being introduced in 1955. For full results of the days events visit www.gpsqld.org.au.

Photos courtesy of Robyne Cuerel and Gary Lynagh