Rowing SA takes control of its future with sustainability fund

The federation has launched a fund which they have set a target of R50 Million as a means to protect pathways and ensure athletes have the necessary resources to succeed internationally. 

Speaking exclusively to SABC Sport, Rowing South Africa President Ben Burnand said that the Federation does not want to play victim but are rather looking to set themselves up for success. 

"We want to establish a fund that means that our sport can for perpetuity continue. We are not going to play the victim, we want to set ourselves up to continue being successful. Not only for our sport, but because we think it's important for South Africans to see sports take the bull by the horns and establish good systems."

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Burnand says that sustainability would mean that the federation can professionalize ensuring that the sport grows in a responsible way and that athletes are given a fair chance when it comes to international competition. 

In response to whether there has been communication with SASCOC regarding such initiatives Burnand conceded that SASCOC is always encouraging the federation to look for ways to be sustainable. 

He said that Rowing SA cannot continue running around asking for donations or begging for sponsors. 

"Everyone loves to see sports being able to fund themselves no matter how they do it. When it comes to SASCOC, we are forever grateful and we are big fans of Barry and his team, and they provide us with oversight support and guidance when we face challenges.

"With regards to things like this, they are always encouraging us to look for ways to be sustainable. We can't spend our lives running around for donations," emphasised Burnand.

Burnand said that despite operating as a small, largely volunteer-driven sport, the federation has implemented strict policies, including a formal trustee framework, clear mandates on spending and fully auditable and traceable funding processes. He emphasised that there is a dedicated board of trustees overseeing ongoing discussions around how funds are allocated.