Sizwe Ndlovu embraces his role as rowing’s trend setter

Ndlovu became the first Black South African man to win an Olympic gold medal when he triumphed in the coxless four at the London 2012 Games.

He has also become the first rower to serve as Team South Africa’s Chef de Mission. Ndlovu, who was recently announced by the South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (SASCOC) as Chef de Mission for the Youth Olympic Games in Dakar from 31 October to 13 November, hopes his achievements will inspire young athletes to believe that anything is possible.

"In fact, yes, you are right: first Olympian gold medalist, first Chef de Mission for the Youth. It's the first time ever, so, ja, it's good to put my name in the history books again. This made me realize that I am a trendsetter in the sport of rowing, so ja, it's good for the sport," said Ndlovu.

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The 45-year-old, who is now a full-time coach and manager involved in development programmes at the University of Johannesburg, has helped challenge the perception that rowing is only for the privileged. 

His Olympic gold medal changed his life and those around him, while also helping to open doors for the sport in black communities. 

Ndlovu has no regrets about taking up rowing as an athlete and later becoming a coach.

Ndlovu says rowing continues to grow in South Africa, with more young athletes showing interest at schools and universities. 

He believes the numbers are a clear sign that the sport is moving in the right direction.

Ndlovu, who was the deputy Chef de Mission assisting Leon Fleiser at the African Youth Games in Angola last year, says his biggest wish is to see rowing introduced at every school in the country, especially government schools.

However, he knows the high cost of the sport remains a major challenge.

Ndlovu, who retired from competitive rowing in 2016, is appealing to parents and schools to create opportunities for more learners to get involved in the sport. 

He believes the right structures can help rowing reach even more young South Africans.