Fresher Gordon Appelcryn has recently been selected for the Australian U19 Rowing team, specifically Australian Junior Double Scull along with rowing partner Hamish Danks (pictured above with Gordon).
We spoke to Gordon to learn more about his passion for rowing and becoming an Androvian this year.
What are you studying, and at which university?
I am studying a Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Advanced Studies (Exercise and Sport Science) at University of Sydney.
What made you choose St Andrew’s?
I chose St Andrew’s as I knew if I were to continue improving and developing as both an athlete and university student, this College environment will have a massive impact on my daily life. St Andrew’s reputation for being highly competitive and successful in a range of sports, music, dramas, and many other extracurricular activities is what makes it stand out from all the other colleges. I knew from the very moment that I decided to go to University of Sydney to study, that I needed to get into Drew’s and be part of its prosperous community.
As a fresher, how do you feel St Andrew’s will support you to achieve your goals?
Coming from Far North Queensland, without Drew’s accepting me I would not have been able to come down to row and study in Sydney. Scholarships have also helped me follow my dreams as without any financial help I would not have been able to afford to relocate to a big city.
College offers tutoring for many University subjects which has helped me countless times on catching up with assignments and study when I have been away due to sporting commitments.
Tell us about your experiences in rowing, why it’s a passion of yours, and your recent rowing success.
Rowing became a passion of mine ever since I started in the grade 8 Learn to Row program at The Cathedral School in Townsville, Queensland. A few years after starting my rowing journey and having great success in the local season and state championships, I wanted to take my rowing further. In 2019 I participated at the Australian National Championships and I was able to walk away with both silver and bronze medals. From that moment on it had been my dream to one day wear the green and gold colours and make the Junior Australian team in my first year of University. The countless kilometres I did on and off the water and the early morning get-ups were all worth it in the end. I was selected into the AUS team, and specifically the Australian Junior Double scull.
My next goal is to one day wear an Olympic medal around my neck.
