The RMB Universities\u2019 Boat Race returns to the Kowie River in Port Alfred from 11\u201313 September, uniting South Africa\u2019s top university crews in three days of intense racing and tradition. This year\u2019s regatta promises not only fierce rivalries but also a showcase of South Africa\u2019s future rowing stars, many of whom have already competed on the world stage and are poised to become the next generation of national team athletes.<\/p>\n
Header Image supplied<\/em><\/p>\n In total, more than 500 athletes from a dozen universities will compete, with highlights including:<\/p>\n International pedigree \u2013 Athletes fresh from the World University Games and U23 World Championships will line up on the Kowie. The field includes standout international competitors such as Chloe Cresswell, silver medallist at the U23 World Championships, racing for Tuks in the women\u2019s 8+, and Done Erasmus, a Zimbabwean finalist at the same event. Returning athletes from Germany\u2019s University World Games will also strengthen the UCT, Stellenbosch and Tuks line-ups. Together, they represent the sport\u2019s growing depth and South Africa\u2019s pathway to future Olympic squads.<\/p>\n Tradition Meets Transformation<\/p>\n Women\u2019s rowing takes centre stage in 2025, with record entries from Stellenbosch, Wits and UWC. Student-driven initiatives \u2013 such as UWC\u2019s 72-hour Ergathon and NMU\u2019s novice-led revival \u2013 highlight the passion sustaining the sport, while Rhodes and WSU embody resilience and growth despite limited resources. UCT President Oliver Kane-Smith sums up the anticipation: \u201cThe Boat Race is the highlight of the year. You can be assured that UCT will be there \u2013 guns blazing.\u201d<\/p>\n RMB: Investing in the Future of Rowing<\/p>\n As headline sponsor, RMB\u2019s commitment spans grassroots to elite levels, ensuring rowing continues to grow as a competitive, accessible sport across South Africa. Their support has turned the RMB Universities Boat Race into more than a regatta \u2013 it\u2019s a launchpad for future champions.<\/p>\n Michael Edwards, Sponsorships Marketing Lead\u2013 on rowing development & university sport: \u201cAt RMB, we believe in building strong foundations – starting with young rowing talent at schools and universities. Our commitment to university rowing isn\u2019t just about competition; it’s about providing the resources, and exposure that pave the way from the campus to the RMB National Squad. It\u2019s immensely rewarding to see these athletes grow, knowing that we\u2019re helping to shape South Africa\u2019s future champions.\u201d<\/p>\n RMB Boat Race 2025 is set to deliver fast racing, fierce rivalries, and a glimpse of the national stars of tomorrow.<\/p>\n Visit the RMB and USSA websites, RMB social media platform and USSA Instagram page for regular updates.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
\nWomen\u2019s rowing breakthrough \u2013 Stellenbosch, Wits and UWC will field multiple women\u2019s crews for the first time in a number of years, underlining the rapid growth of the women\u2019s sport.
\nNewcomers on the rise \u2013 Walter Sisulu University makes its debut with both men and women\u2019s A crews.
\nDefending champions \u2013 UCT men and Tuks women aim to retain their crown, while Maties arrive as reigning sprint champions with five national squad rowers on board.
\nElite Talent on Show<\/p>\n