A VOCAL spit crew can be crucial in getting their rowers across the line for Boat Race glory. Year 12 student Daniel Fairhurst has the duty to lead Ballarat High School’s war cry in Ballarat Associated Schools’ Head of the Lake on Friday. He is vocally ready to showcase school pride.
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“Rowers have put in such hard work, they deserve our support,” Mr Fairhurst said. “I used to row and know what it takes, all the training, just to get out there. It really can be anybody’s race.”
High School is out to recapture the success of its stunning boys victory in 2014, which broke a 14-year title drought. The school called on five-time world champion and five-time Olympic aerial skiier Jacqui Cooper for a motivational talk with the entire student body. Ms Cooper also spent extra time with rowing squads and specialist sports program students.
“I like speaking to students because they tend to be a lot more receptive,” Ms Cooper said. “...It’s all about a good attitude and taking on any opportunities that come your way. With great effort, possibilities are endless.”
Ms Cooper is now an ambassador and motivational speaker with long-time sponsor La Trobe Financial. She was 16 when embarking on her 10-year road map to a world championship title – a girl with no skiing experience and little exposure to snow, who was driven to pull-off moves no woman had ever made before.
“Just knowing someone believes in you makes a big difference,” Ms Cooper said. “This school is so passionate about its rowing, they put so many resources, time and energy, into this event and hopefully these rowers know everyone is behind them.”
*BAS Head of the Lake regatta racing starts at noon. Follow all the action and war cries via The Courier’s rolling coverage at thecourier.com.au.
