WA Athletes at Henley Royal Regatta

WA Athletes Represent on the International Stage at Henley Royal Regatta

Western Australian rowers showcased their talent on one of the sport’s biggest stages at the 2026 Henley Royal Regatta, competing against world-class crews on the River Thames.

The Swan River Rowing Club men’s coxless four of Fergus McNamara, Quinton Marketos, Blair Parnell, and Harry Salfinger faced a tough opening draw against Mercantile in the fastest race of the opening round of the Wyfold Challenge Cup, narrowly missing the opportunity to progress to the next round.

Swan River Rowing Club was also represented in the women’s coxless quad by Emma O’Neill, Lara Connolly, Isabella Edinger, and Courtney Davis. While their campaign ended in the opening round, the crew made history as part of the inaugural Danesfield Challenge Cup, marking a significant moment for women’s rowing at Henley through the expansion of women’s events at the regatta.

Two Western Australians also competed for the UK club Leander. Myles McQuillan raced in the intermediate men’s eight contesting the Ladies’ Challenge Plate, with Leander winning in a time of 6:04. Zoe McKellar also competed for Leander in the Danesfield Challenge Cup. McKellar and the crew progressed through the regatta to finish second, capping off an impressive campaign in the inaugural event.

Competing at Henley Royal Regatta is a significant achievement in itself, with the event attracting some of the world’s best crews. The performances of our WA athletes highlight the strength of the state’s rowing pathways and the opportunities available to compete at internationally renowned events.