OUTSTANDING ROWING TALENT SHOWCASED AT NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS

What an incredible day at the National Junior Indoor Rowing Championships (NJIRC) 2026!
Last week, Redhill Academy Trust secondary students gathered in Leeds for this year’s NJIRC North event.
They joined over 800 young athletes at The John Charles Centre representing schools and rowing clubs from across the Midlands and North of England. This annual event by London Youth Rowing brings together young people from all backgrounds to experience the excitement, competition, and community spirit of rowing at a national level.
Cheered on by their fellow competitors, selected rowers from our academies put in superb performances throughout individual and relay events, showcasing outstanding rowing technique, sportsmanship and perseverance.
Chris McManus, Head Coach for Redhill Rowing Academy, said: “I was impressed and proud of each and every one of our students.”
“They presented themselves brilliantly and did it all with smiles and enjoyment. It was a good day to be part of Redhill Academy Trust.”
“A massive thank you to the staff that contributed a huge amount of work to get the students ready for event, and for supporting them and myself throughout the day.”
Cam Liburd-Godbehere, Teacher of PE and Second in Department at South
Nottinghamshire Academy, said: “Taking part in NJIRC was a brilliant experience for our students. The atmosphere was electric, and it was fantastic to see them challenge themselves and support one another throughout.
“The event showcased all the hard work our students put in through our school rowing club. Rowing has given our students a real sense of confidence, resilience, and belonging, and the support of our sixth form volunteer has been invaluable in helping them grow and achieve their best.”
Results from the day
Competition was fierce, but outstanding effort from all our participating students
culminated in some exceptional times and a number of impressive podium finishes:
Year 7 Girls - SILVER – Thea, Colonel Frank Seely Academy
Year 8 Girls - BRONZE – Pola, Park Vale Academy
Year 8 Boys - BRONZE – Tyler, South Nottinghamshire Academy
Year 9 Boys - SILVER - Griff, South Nottinghamshire Academy
Junior Girls Relay - BRONZE - Colonel Frank Seely Academy
Rowing at Redhill
Redhill Academy Trust has invested heavily in rowing as one of four 'core sports', providing opportunities for young people across all Trust schools to have a go, develop their talent and even participate in the sport at a national level. A partnership with London Youth Rowing has seen significant investment in equipment and coaching at the Trust's 10 secondary schools. Each school now boasts 10 Concept2 rowing machines which are being put to good use through high-octane inter-house competitions and co-curricular clubs.
Frankie, South Nottinghamshire Academy student reflected on rowing at Redhill Academy Trust: “In junior school I never took part in sports clubs, I didn't feel like I was necessarily a sporty person. But joining rowing club at school has allowed me to build my confidence and recognise that I am great at sport. This has led me to having more confidence in other sports too!”