The 2025 NSW Schoolgirl Head of the River will be a dramatic culmination of nine months’ worth of ergo sessions, countless kilometres, and endless gruelling strokes, with the schoolgirl second eight final set to take place at Sydney International Regatta Centre on Saturday at 14:55. Over 2000m, five competitive crews will battle it out in one of the most anticipated schoolgirl rowing events of the season. With varied strengths across the field, this race will come down to a balance of power, endurance, and tactical execution.
Kinross Wolaroi – Lane 6
One of the most dominant crews this season, Kinross Wolaroi has proven their ability to lead from the front. Their victory at the PLC/Kings/RNSW Regatta in 6:53.42 was a commanding display, enforcing their reputation as the crew to beat. Known for their powerful starts and ability to hold a relentless pace through the middle 1000m, this crew—led by Maggie Kirby, Jemima Scammell, with Emily Caro in the coxswain seat—will look to take control of the race early and hold off challengers. Coaches Andrew Gannon and Emma Fessey will ensure their squad is well-prepared for the challenge ahead.
Queenwood – Lane 5
Queenwood has demonstrated remarkable consistency, securing multiple podium finishes throughout the season. They were second at the PLC/Kings/RNSW Regatta in 7:03.64, but their most significant statement came at the IGSA Sport Regatta, where they clinched victory in 7:09.24. With a steady pacing strategy and a lethal sprint finish, this crew—stroked by Brigid Tompson and coxed by Zara Millner—is a serious contender for the top spot. Coaches Zoe Keating and Ashley Fitch have fine-tuned their race plan to ensure Queenwood executes a well-timed push when it matters most.
Loreto Kirribilli – Lane 7
A consistently strong performer, Loreto Kirribilli secured silver at the Loreto Kirribilli Regatta and third at the PLC/Kings/RNSW Regatta, clocking 7:15.28. Their strength lies in their mid-race surge, which allows them to stay in touch with the leaders before mounting a late charge. Led by coxswain Lucy Karamanian, they have shown resilience in head-to-head battles and will aim to push deeper into the medal positions. With Amelia Charleson and Maddie Wheelahan leading the charge, expect Loreto Kirribilli to stay in the hunt for a podium finish.
St Catherine’s – Lane 4
Despite mixed results this season, St Catherine’s remains a crew with serious potential. They claimed gold at the Roseville Regatta over 1500m and finished fourth at the PLC/Kings/RNSW Regatta in 7:17.64. Known for their final 500m speed, this crew can close gaps quickly, which makes them a serious threat if they are within striking distance at the finish. Genevieve Links and Aida Lloyd will be instrumental in driving the rhythm, while coach Diarmuid O’Driscoll will ensure their tactical execution is sharp.
Pymble Ladies’ College – Lane 8
Pymble Ladies’ College has consistently featured in the top end of the field but has struggled to break into the top three in key regattas. Their fifth-place finish at the PLC/Kings/RNSW Regatta in 7:42.52 suggests they need to find another gear to challenge for a podium position. Their key focus will be sustaining their mid-race pace to stay in contact with the front-runners. Coach William Foxton will have prepared them to refine their race plan, and with a well-executed strategy, they could surprise a few.
Race Prediction
This race presents a fascinating tactical battle between fast starters and strong finishers. Kinross Wolaroi will aim to dictate terms early with their explosive start, while Queenwood will likely execute a controlled build, looking to apply pressure in the second half. Loreto Kirribilli and St Catherine’s are known for making late-race moves, while Pymble must hang on through the middle 1000m to be in contention.
With all five crews eager to stamp their authority on the season’s biggest races, expect nothing less than a hard-fought, high-intensity contest. Will Kinross Wolaroi maintain their dominance? Can Queenwood time their push to perfection? Or will Loreto Kirribilli and St Catherine’s turn the tables in the final sprint?
The answers will unfold on Saturday at the Sydney International Regatta Centre.
Podium Prediction:
Champions – Kinross Wolaroi
Runners Up – Queenwood
Third Place – Loreto Kirribilli
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