Australian Defence Force (ADF) rowers secured podium finishes at the Australian Masters Rowing Championships at Champion Lakes in Perth from May 27 to 30.
Racing against civilian teams, crews converted limited preparation into strong performances in crew boats and individual races, despite fielding a comparatively small contingent.
Amberley-based physical training instructor Corporal Sarah Leon was one of the strongest performers, winning gold medals in the lightweight women’s A single scull, women’s A four and mixed A/B eight.
It was her third consecutive national title in the lightweight single scull, and she won a silver medal in the eight.
For Corporal Leon, it was the social atmosphere that stood out.
“It’s a big family, with camaraderie, great morale, teamwork, and that’s what I love about the sport,” she said.
Flight Lieutenant David Visser, of Air Force Headquarters, competed in six events, with the standout performance coming in the mixed eight, where the crew secured a national title.
He said the crew, coming from across Australia, relied largely on individual training.
“There was a point where we were going toe to toe, then we lifted our effort and pulled away,” Flight Lieutenant Visser said.
Lieutenant Benjamin Page, of HMAS Watson, competed in the men’s A and men’s B eight events, finishing fourth and third respectively.
Lieutenant Page has attended the Masters regatta each year since the ADF club’s establishment 17 years ago.
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