Four South African rowers took part in the Head of the Charles Regatta, held on the Charles River in Boston, United States.
This marked a historic moment, as it was the first time an all-Black African team participated in the event.
The team, competing against some of the best rowers in the world, consists of Lwazi-Tsebo Zwane, Lebone Mokheseng, Sepitle Leshilo, and Sheldon Krishnasamy.
Rower Lwazi-Tsebo Zwane shared his thoughts on the experience, saying:,
“In terms of minority crews, to be one of the first and few… it feels like we’re making history. For me, it’s life-changing, a bit surreal.”
Zwane added that they were honored to serve as role models for young Africans and hoped to show them that, no matter the circumstances, determination is the key to success.
The Charles River course stretches 4.7 kilometers from start to finish, highlighting the high standards and prestige of the event the crew took part in.