Growing the Fleet, Growing the Future: KAND Boat Christenings Mark Another Milestone
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
The KAND Rowing Club community came together over the weekend to celebrate another exciting milestone, officially christening two new additions to the club's growing fleet and recognising the people whose legacy and support continue to shape the club's future.
Leading the celebrations was the naming of Miller Rowe, the club's new Women's Eight.
The boat has already enjoyed an outstanding debut season, helping KAND claim the Queensland State Championship, before going on to secure a silver medal at the Australian Rowing Championships in the prestigious Queen's Cup. Its early success reflects the strength and determination of KAND's women's program, and there is little doubt the Miller Rowe has many more memorable races ahead.
Continuing a proud KAND tradition, every Eight in the club's fleet is named in honour of the Rowe family, recognising the extraordinary contribution of Scott Rowe, his brother Warren Rowe, and Scott's son Miller Rowe. Their generosity, unwavering support and enduring commitment have been instrumental in KAND's growth and success. The naming of the Miller Rowe proudly continues a legacy that will inspire generations of KAND athletes and serve as a lasting reminder of a family whose belief in the club has helped shape its future. The occasion was made even more special with Miller joined by members of the Rowe family, who were in attendance to witness the christening and celebrate this significant milestone.
The second christening honoured one of the club's most influential figures, with KAND's new Women's Four being named Kelly Armitage. As the club's founder and the driving force behind KAND's growth, Kelly's vision, leadership and generous support have been instrumental in building the club into what it is today. Naming one of the club's newest racing shells in his honour is a fitting recognition of his extraordinary contribution to KAND Rowing Club.
The occasion was equally meaningful with Kelly joined by his wife, Ang, and members of the Armitage family, who were present to witness the christening and celebrate this significant milestone in the club's history.
The weekend's celebrations also highlighted the remarkable growth of the club. In just one season, KAND has now christened four new women's boats, a significant achievement and a clear reflection of the club's continued investment in developing female athletes and providing them with the equipment needed to compete at the highest level.
From development through to national and international competition, KAND's women's program continues to grow from strength to strength. Every new boat represents more than just equipment. It represents opportunity, ambition and the club's ongoing commitment to helping athletes reach their full potential.
The christening ceremony was a celebration not only of new boats, but of the people, families and supporters whose generosity and commitment continue to drive KAND forward. As the club continues to invest in its athletes and expand its fleet, each new boat represents another step towards an even stronger future.
The celebrations concluded with a club barbecue, providing members, families and supporters the opportunity to come together and reflect on another significant milestone in KAND's journey. It was a wonderful afternoon enjoyed by all, and special thanks go to Tom Coates for organising the day's celebrations and the barbecue, ensuring the occasion was one worthy of the milestone it marked.
Every new boat represents more than an addition to the fleet. It reinforces KAND's commitment to maintaining the culture, standards and traditions that have made it Queensland's premier high performance rowing club.
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