South Africa Takes on the World: RMB National Squad Ready for Shanghai Showdown
South Africa Takes on the World: RMB National Squad Ready for Shanghai Showdown
From 21–28 September 2025, the world’s best rowers will gather in Shanghai, China, for the World Rowing Championships — and South Africa’s RMB National Squad is set to compete in two of the toughest events on the programme.
Nearly 900 athletes from 56 countries will contest 23 boat classes, making this the strongest field since the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games. South Africa, the continent’s only consistent presence at this level, will line up in the women’s single sculls and the men’s pair — both among the largest entries at the regatta.
Facing the Deepest Fields
- Women’s Single Sculls (20 entries): Paige Badenhorst, 8th at World Cup II in Lucerne and a finalist at Henley Royal Regatta, races in a packed field of 20 nations.
“We’ve settled in nicely over the last few days and I’m super excited to test my speed against the best in the world,”
Badenhorst said ahead of her campaign.
- Men’s Pair (23 entries): Damien Bonhage-Koen and Christopher Baxter have already shown their speed with a 4th-place A Final finish in Lucerne and a strong Henley campaign.
“I am excited to fly my country’s flag on the international stage,”
said Bonhage-Koen.
Baxter added:
“I’m feeling confident in the training that we’ve done this season and I’m extremely excited to get the opportunity to race again.”
Momentum from Europe
The squad’s European tour sharpened combinations and confidence. Badenhorst and the men’s pair pushed world-leading crews in Lucerne and gained invaluable experience at Henley, proving they belong in the mix on rowing’s biggest stage.
Conditions in Shanghai
After weeks of intense heat, conditions at Dianshan Lake have now stabilised, giving crews fairer water and consistent opportunities to maximise boat speed. Adaptability will be key as athletes adjust to these different conditions.
Eyes on Shanghai
For South Africa, competing in Shanghai is about more than results — it’s about gaining experience, carrying forward the nation’s proud rowing tradition, and continuing to represent Africa on the world stage.
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