BALLARAT loves nothing more than an underdog to cheer on.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
This Sunday, that underdog will be the Phoenix P-12 Community College year 10 division 3 girls crew.
Phoenix is competing in Ballarat’s biggest rowing competition, the Head of the Lake, for the first time.
"The opposition are just starting to realise who they are – the advantage is that they don’t know too much about the girls"
Year 10 students Ally Dennis, Caitlin Ritchie, Abby Simpson, Holly Dawson and Mary Greed have spent months preparing for the big race, with training on Monday mornings and after school on Wednesdays at Lake Wendouree and land session during lunchtime twice a week.
Earlier in the year, the crew competed in the Wendouree-Ballarat Regatta, finishing fourth in the open D grade 4+ final, and also finished second at the St Patrick’s College Regatta division three competition.
Rowing co-ordinator Wendy Tangey said a combination of the experience competing in both regattas and extensive training meant the crew was well prepared for this Sunday’s event.
“I’ve seen them improve their determination and dedication to the sport and noticed their fitness has improved a lot as well,” she said.
“They are five very strong and versatile girls.”
Ms Tangey said despite not coming from one of the traditional schools in the competition, the girls offered just as much talent and expected the year 10 division 3 girls’ race to be a fierce competition.
“The opposition are just starting to realise who they are – the advantage is that they don’t know too much about the girls,” she said.
“They will be competitive and give it their all.
“I’m hoping we will surprise a few.”
Rowing now for two years, the girls aren’t showing any nerves leading up to the race, with their eyes set on the big prize.
Bow Abby Simpson said with a crowd of fellow Phoenix P-12 Community College students cheering them on, they were determined to show Ballarat just how serious they were about winning.
“To win would be so awesome, just to show the other schools we row properly and seriously,” she said.
“We want to give them a run for their money.”
Ms Tangey said she hoped the girls’ determination encouraged other crews to join the school’s team for next year’s competition.
The 2015 Head of the Lake kicks off at Lake Wendouree on Sunday from 9am.
alicia.thomas@fairfaxmedia.com.au