In a sporting achievement that continues to redefine consistency, St Benedict’s College has once again been crowned South Africa’s top boys rowing school. The 2026 national championships at Roodeplaat Dam delivered another historic moment as Bennies secured their 32nd consecutive national title. With victories across the U14, U15, U16 and U19 divisions and a commanding performance in the First Eight race, the Johannesburg school demonstrated why it remains the gold standard in South African school rowing. But behind the medals lies a deeper story about endurance, teamwork and the psychology of sustained success. On CapeTalk and 702, fitness enthusiast, presenter and mental fitness coach Liezel van der Westhuizen joins Africa Melane to unpack the lessons behind this extraordinary dynasty. From leadership under pressure to the resilience built through rowing, the conversation reveals why this demanding sport continues to shape the next generation of high performing young athletes in South Africa.

 

In a sporting achievement that continues to redefine consistency, St Benedict&rsquo;s College has once again been crowned South Africa&rsquo;s top boys rowing school. The 2026 national championships at Roodeplaat Dam delivered another historic moment as Bennies secured their 32nd consecutive national title. With victories across the U14, U15, U16 and U19 divisions and a commanding performance in the First Eight race, the Johannesburg school demonstrated why it remains the gold standard in South African school rowing. But behind the medals lies a deeper story about endurance, teamwork and the psychology of sustained success. On CapeTalk and 702, fitness enthusiast, presenter and mental fitness coach Liezel van der Westhuizen joins Africa Melane to unpack the lessons behind this extraordinary dynasty. From leadership under pressure to the resilience built through rowing, the conversation reveals why this demanding sport continues to shape the next generation of high performing young athletes in South Africa.
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Early Breakfast with Africa Melane

Your early morning catch-up with chat, traffic and news delivered in a relaxed manner. weekdays from 4 am to 6 am.

Your early morning catch-up with chat, traffic and news delivered in a relaxed manner. weekdays from 4 am to 6 am.

The school rowing dynasty that refuses to slow down

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/5dcefa8e-00a9-4595-8ce1-a4ab0080f142/clips/5b386df6-965e-459d-9071-b417003336cf/transcript