The Westlake Girls High School Rowing squad competed last week at the 2026 New Zealand Secondary Schools Championships, held on the pristine waters of Lake Ruataniwha in Twizel. The entire squad upheld the school’s values, competing with fierce determination while consistently demonstrating pride and integrity both on and off the water.
The Westlake crews achieved two significant podium placements: the Girls Under 18 Pair final was a gripping race, with Charlotte Mawston and Zara Bosch outsprinting a strong Epsom Girls crew in the final 500 metres to secure the silver medal. This performance marks them as two of the top schoolgirl rowers in the country. Not to be outdone, the Girls Under 17 Pair crew of Annabel Webber and Zara Bosch also rose to the occasion, executing a flawless first 500m and showing outstanding grit and composure to win the bronze medal.
Beyond the medal count, the depth of the Westlake squad shone through in the overall participation in finals, with 86% of the Westlake Girls Rowing squad racing in finals at the regatta. This achievement represents a significant leap forward for the programme, up from 65% of the squad last year. This level of consistency across the board is a testament to the dedication of every rower, top level coaching, and the strong culture of training and performance established within the squad.
Following their exceptional performances, several Westlake athletes have been invited to trial for New Zealand age group teams:
- Charlotte Mawston has been named as one of only 14 female triallists for the New Zealand Under 19 Rowing Team.
- Zara Bosch and Lyla Carrancho have both been selected as triallists for the North Island Under 18 Rowing Team.
These selection trials are scheduled to take place during the upcoming school holidays, and the entire Westlake community wishes these athletes the very best as they pursue these outstanding representative opportunities.
A final thank you to the staff and parents who helped make this season a success. We could not do this without your commitment and generosity, it is greatly appreciated.
For any students keen to get involved in rowing, the Westlake Learn to Row programme will begin in Term 2. Keep an eye out for notices next term, or get in touch with Mr Stanley ([email protected])