Training with bite: British Rowing innovates new edge for Brisbane 2032
With news that a crocodile-inhabited river is set to host rowing events at the Brisbane 2032 Games, British Rowing has approached reptile experts and Salford City Council to explore a bold new plan to introduce crocodiles to the River Irwell in a bid to boost how they prepare the next generation of British rowing medallists
Image credit: AI-generated image created using OpenAI tools
Under the proposal, up to three breeding pairs of crocodiles could be relocated to Salford Quays later this year, with strict monitoring in place to track any increase in crocodile attacks in the area.
As part of this latest initiative, British Rowing is working with Agecroft Rowing Club and Dixons Academies Trust to give pupils in Salford a head start in their pursuit of Brisbane 2032 success. British Rowing employs a nationwide network of Talent ID coaches who work with schools, colleges, and universities to snap up young people with Olympic and Paralympic potential. Coaches on the lookout for talent insist no previous rowing experience is required; just the right physique, a love of the outdoors, and the ability to handle high-pressure situations.
News last week that the Brisbane 2032 venue is set to change came as a surprise. Nathaniel Reilly-O’Donnell, British Rowing’s Director of Pathways responded, “We know that Rowing Australia is hoping for a bit more bite from their team, but we didn’t see this coming.”
When explaining the thinking behind the Salford plan, Reilly-O’Donnell added, “The best preparation shouldn’t just be for those who can afford access to their own croc infested waters. We’re here to help young people of all backgrounds go for that podium place and this initiative is part of a wider plan to maintain our world-leading advantage in how we prepare athletes for international success.”
Rachael Fidler of Dixons Academies Trust believes the plan put forward will enrich their student experience. “In Salford we’ve been working with the charity All Aboard Youth Rowing and Agecroft Rowing Club to introduce rowing into the school curriculum and it’s been an amazing success,” she explained. “I imagine that some pupils may be a little uneasy at the thought of crocs lurking in the river, but we think it will build resilience. We will, of course, take all precautions and train our staff on how to treat any bite injuries.”
Andy Burnham and the Greater Manchester Combined Authority are yet to comment on the plan.
If you think you might have what it takes to be a GB Rower or you just want to give rowing a go, snap up your place by booking your place here.
Correction as of 12:00 1/4/2025:
Ok – we weren’t serious about releasing crocodiles into the River Irwell, but we are serious about providing new opportunities for rowers. British Rowing is fully committed to creating meaningful opportunities for young rowers from all backgrounds. We work closely with the rowing community to provide brilliant first experiences of rowing, and whether you have Olympic and Paralympic potential or you just want to give our sport a go, find out how to get involved below.
