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Local student, Declin Carter, wins Single Sculls event
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Last month Declin Carter (15) won the Under 17 Boys Single Sculls event at the Gold Coast All Schools Rowing Association Regatta with only six months of training behind him.
Declin who is in year-10 at Varsity College loves the thrill of the competition. “The best part is when there are only two guys left and I’m one of them, my adrenaline is pumping excitedly to the finish line to win the competition,” he said.
Reg Free, Declin’s coach, has had a prestigious career spanning more than 20 years, competing in and coaching Australian athletes for several world championship meets.
Coach Free enjoys helping young rowers develop their skill and passion. “At this age, the stamina is there. They’re always running around, skateboarding and the like. Right now, it’s more a matter of getting the technique right,” he said.
Declin and other rowers train three times a week on Lake Orr where he and Coach Free work on his technique and style. “It’s a pleasure to be trained by my coach … he is an awesome coach,” said Declin.
Coach Free said having long limbs and good height is an advantage in rowing, but does not prohibit someone from participating in the sport. Declin was first introduced to rowing by his father and while he loves the competition, he also enjoys social rowing with friends and family. “It’s a great feeling when you start rowing with friends and also very fulfilling, he said.
The next opportunity for Declin and his Varsity College team mates to shine will be at the next Gold Coast All Schools Rowing Association Regatta on June 14. The event will be held on Lake Orr where Varsity College regularly holds its practices.
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