New Zealand have named an all-star line up to take on the Australian Crew at the Griffith University Paradise Regatta.
"We feel we have picked a great crew with a good mix of big name, really experienced oarsmen and emerging talent." Alan Cotter High Performance Director of NZ Rowing said.
Top of the big name list is the fastest single sculler of all time - Mahe Drysdale.
The giant New Zealander will lead the Kiwi contingent following an heroic come from behind win in the single scull at the 2009 World Championships.
Mahe's victory was achieved in a World record time of 6:33, eclipsing his old mark by 2 seconds!
Right behind him are fellow 2009 World Mens Pair Champions Eric Murray and Hamish Bond. In an exciting matchup these guys will be facing off against the reining Olympic pair champion in Australian Duncan Free.
Adding depth is late bloomer Matt Trott who raced in the New Zealand Double Scull in 2007 and recently won the Royal Henley Regatta and placed 4th at the World Championships.
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"Its always the dream to row the 8 and its great to have a chance to meet the public demand and race the Aussie 8." Matt said (pictured right).
Rounding out the team will be the World U23 Coxless Four Champions and 9th place getters at the recent world championships in Pozan. This young quartet of Tyson Williams, Hamish Burson, Simon Watson and Storm Uru have grown considerably in experience in the past 12 months and look forward to turning the tables on their Australian competitors in Surfers Paradise.
Much credit must be given to Rowing New Zealand High Performance director Alan Cotter. His support of the concept of an Australia New Zealand Boat Race in the favorite Kiwi destination of the Gold Coast was immediate and strong. "This will be fantastic, I and the boys can't wait. The start of a great television sporting spectacle for both nations I feel."
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