The Royal College Rowing Crew took part in a training session along with the crew of Melbourne High School as a part of their Summer Training Camp from the 5th to the 8th of January. The contingent from Royal consisted of Ms Inoka Wijendra (TIC), Mr. Mohamed Rifath (Coach), Hashen Hettigoda, Lasindu Rivindra, Prathap Perera, Ishira Rabukwella and Avishka Jayaweera. The oarsmen along with the crew from Melbourne High was trained under the guidance of Mr. Paul Mc Gann, the Director of Rowing at MHS, Mr. Chrish Bush, MHS Rowing Coach and Royal’s very own Mr. Mohamed Rifath on the Yarra River. The boys were welcomed at Melbourne High School at the school’s main hall by Mr. Jeremy Ludowyke, the principal.

Melbourne High School traces its history back to 1854 and the establishment of the National Model School. In 1905, the School became the Continuation School and therefore proclaimed itself as the first state secondary school in Victoria. It is a statewide provider of broad academic education for boys in Years 9 to 12. The School and Royal College have had a long running relationship, with each school hosting each other’s sporting teams from as far back as the year 1936, hence making this not only a valuable learning experience for the teams but also a visit of much historical significance. Last year the MHS cricket team visited Royal College for a friendly match between the two schools. A Memorandum of Understanding was also signed by the two institutions at this occasion. (Read the full story here).

With the conclusion of the training session, the Royal College Crew is due to take part in the Lake Moodemere Rutherglen Regatta, Australia’s oldest rowing regatta and one of the most popular in the State of Victoria which is due to take place on the 9th of January. This would provide the Royalists taking part with priceless experience and exposure which will help them to lead the crew to victory at the many events scheduled for the year, including the Royal – Thomian Regatta.