Bundaberg rower Elizabeth Newell recently represented Australia at the World Coastal and Beach Sprints Championships in Genoa, taking home fourth place in the mixed doubles event.

Elizabeth said that she was extremely keen to compete again after injury had prevented her participation in Nationals in 2023.

“Rowing for the University of Queensland Boat Club, I was entered in the Open Women’s Solo, the Mixed Double and the Mixed Quad events,” Elizabeth said.

“After some tough racing I managed to come away with a Gold Medal and National Champion Title in all three events which was very exciting.

“Prior to these Championships, I had attended selection trials in Sydney for the opportunity to represent Australia at the World Championships.”

Elizabeth said it was exciting to be selected to represent Australia.

“Racing in Genoa was an amazing experience and a great opportunity to race against the 35 other countries who were entered in the Open Mixed double event,” she said.

“Coastal rowing is a very exciting and unpredictable sport so you never know what to expect from each race.

“We had to navigate some pretty tricky conditions on the water, but after some very close races Blake and myself came away placing fourth in the world.

“It was also a great experience to race against and alongside athletes who had recently competed at the Paris Olympics in still water rowing events.”

Elizabeth first started rowing in high school and encouraged anyone interested in the sport to give it a go.

“I started rowing in year seven at St Luke’s Anglican School Bundaberg under the guidance of fantastic coaches who helped me develop a love for the sport,” she said.   

“I competed at many events representing my school and the Bundaberg Rowing Club.

“I continued rowing post school for the University of Queensland Boat Club which has provided me further opportunities to row in events at a national and international level.

“Rowing at any level is a great way to meet new people, have some fun and get fit.

“I have certainly made wonderful friends and I thank my family and all those who have encouraged and supported me along the way.”