Four South African Rowers Made History This Weekend at Boston’s Head of the Charles Regatta Becoming First South African Crew Of Color To Compete At The Prestigious International Event
Written by b87fm on 10/20/2025

Four athletes have become first from South Africa to compete in the prestigious Head of the Charles Regatta in Boston as part of a crew comprised entirely of people of color. (AP Video: Rodrique Ngowi)
Four South African rowers are making history this weekend at Boston’s Head of the Charles Regatta, becoming the first crew of color from their country to compete internationally at the prestigious event.
The milestone highlights a growing push to diversify competitive rowing, a sport traditionally dominated by white athletes. For decades, rowing has been tied to elite schools and universities both in the U.S. and South Africa, leaving many talented athletes without access to waterways, coaching, or equipment.
Lwazi-Tsebo Zwane, 23, who trains in Germiston, South Africa, said he and his teammates are keenly aware of the platform they now occupy for young rowers.
“It takes a lot to be at this regatta,” Zwane said. “There’s been a lot of pitfalls, there’s been a lot of barriers. We’re trying to show a different story — that kids from all backgrounds can make it here.”

South African rowers practice on the Charles River in preparation for the Head of the Charles Regatta, Wednesday, Oct. 15, 2025 in Boston. (AP Photo/Leah Willingham)
The South African crew is training with support from Arshay Cooper’s foundation, which works to bring underrepresented athletes into rowing programs in both the U.S. and abroad. Cooper emphasized that talent is everywhere, but opportunity is often limited by access. Rowing shells alone can cost tens of thousands of dollars, and public schools often lack the resources of private programs.
Boston, home to the Charles River’s network of community boathouses, provides a unique opportunity for rowers like Zwane to connect with elite-level facilities and coaching.
“It’s a luxury for us,” Zwane admitted. “For a lot of kids back home, just getting to the water is a challenge. Being here is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.”

South African rowers practice on the Charles River in preparation for the Head of the Charles Regatta, Wednesday, Oct. 15, 2025, in Boston. (AP Photo/Leah Willingham)
The Head of the Charles Regatta has seen a series of firsts in recent years, including the first all-Black women’s eight from the U.S., and indigenous crews racing to honor murdered and missing women in their communities. Advocates like Denise Aquino of Rowing in Color say visibility matters.
“For young people watching, seeing boats full of athletes who look like them isn’t just inspiring — it’s a signal that they belong,” Aquino said.

South African rowers, from left, Sheldon Krishnasamy, Lwazi-Tsebo Zwane, Lebone Mokheseng, and Sepitle Leshilo practice on the Charles River in preparation for the Head of the Charles Regatta, Wednesday, Oct. 15, 2025, in Boston. (AP Photo/Rodrique Ngowi)
Coach Michael Ortlepp added that many South African rowers make extreme sacrifices just to attend practice, often traveling multiple hours and dealing with unsafe conditions. Cooper’s support helps fund transportation and equipment, making participation possible.
Zwane and his teammates are competing in the Men’s Championship 4+, representing Western Cape Rowing and a broader push to break down barriers in a sport historically tied to wealth and privilege. As they row on Boston waters steeped in history, they carry with them the message that talent and dedication can thrive anywhere — if the opportunity is given.