Extra-oardinary performances at regatta

Records tumbled as the UCT Rowing Club won the University Sports South Africa (USSA) Sprint Regatta, held from 23 to 25 March.

The Ikey rowers made light of the windy and wet weather on the Vanderkloof Dam in the Free State to conquer the competition for the first time since 2002. Rivals were blown out of the water as UCT racked up enough medals - including 17 gold - to satisfy the entire Allied Powers.

The men's team came out tops with 299 points, more than 90 points ahead of the second-placed University of Pretoria. The women were similarly ruthless; 290 points was more than enough for a convincing victory, with the second-placed University of Johannesburg trailing in their wake with 246.

UCT's glory was compounded when five men and two women were called up to the South African senior team. Three more women and two men were also selected for the USSA grudge crew (B team).