Blessing of the Fleet
By Ms Megan Fritsch, Director of Sport and Mr Gordon Marcks, Head of Rowing
On Saturday, 18 October, Radford College's rowing community gathered at the boatshed for the annual Blessing of the Fleet – a cherished tradition that marks the official start of the summer rowing season.
This important event on the Radford calendar was attended by students, parents, carers and esteemed members of the College Executive, celebrating the strength and spirit of our close-knit rowing family.
The ceremony was led by the newly appointed 2025/26 Rowing Captains, Olivia and Connor. Principal, Mr Christopher Bradbury, warmly welcomed all in attendance, offering heartfelt thanks to the many individuals who contribute to the success of the rowing program. He acknowledged the dedication and engagement of the entire community, which continues to be a hallmark of Radford's rowing program.
The College's Associate Chaplain, Reverend Andy Fleming, led the Blessing of the Fleet, calling for safety, strength and success for our rowers in the season ahead. Through poetry and prayer, he marked the occasion with reflection and purpose.
Head of Rowing, Mr Gordon Marcks, then addressed the gathering, thanking the passionate coaches and demonstrating enthusiasm for the upcoming season. He highlighted key competitions including local regattas, the NSW and National Championships and the much-anticipated ACT Head of the Lake and NSW Schoolboys and Schoolgirls Heads of the River events. Mr Marcks spoke about the values that rowing instils – discipline, resilience and perseverance – and their enduring relevance in both sport and life.
Mrs Sarah Kruger, President of Friends of Radford Rowing (FoRR), shared her reflections on the strength of the Radford rowing community and the vital role FoRR plays in supporting and growing the program. She emphasised the deep connections fostered through rowing and the lasting impact of these shared experiences.
The morning concluded with a group photo on the newly installed concrete hardstand by the water, followed by a delightful morning tea generously organised by rowers and their families. It was a fitting end to a morning filled with camaraderie, gratitude and a collective sense of purpose.
The Blessing of the Fleet was not only a celebration of tradition but also a powerful beginning to the season – filled with promise, pride and the challenges and triumphs that the summer ahead will bring.