THE POWER OF PARTNERSHIP
In the six years that Rand Merchant Bank ( RMB ) has been involved in rowing , we have experienced the passion , commitment and strength of this small but dedicated community . Our partnership with rowers , coaches , administrators and other stakeholders has given us the opportunity to see the courageous hearts and minds behind the accomplishments of this sport in our country . We have also seen the positive impact of the efforts made to create an inclusive sport among younger rowers , and we look forward to the results of this progress in years to come .
Our partnership with the RMB National Squad , RowSA and Team Powerhouse Trust started in the lead up to the Rio Olympics in 2016 . It ’ s been our privilege to watch the squad advance through a complete Olympic cycle – albeit an extended one – culminating in Tokyo in 2021 . We have witnessed first-hand the courage , dedication , teamwork , resilience and talent that got our boats to the games , and salute everyone involved in making this happen .
In preparation for the Olympics , the RMB National Squad spent months away from family and loved ones . They trained at home through the strictest part of the COVID-19 lockdown , relying on technology to work together as a team . They overcame the many challenges they faced , including water security issues , hyacinth in Roodeplaat Dam and travel restrictions . Instead of looking at the postponement of the games as a setback , they saw it as another year to train – an opportunity to improve . This resilience drives success . We see it in our business , and we see it in our remarkable rowing community .
More recently , RMB is proud to have contributed to the newly constructed Regatta Control Commission building in East London . This important structure serves to host officials and dignitaries during regattas .
There is also a new 12-metre container on the premises where boats can be stored . This will benefit the entire East London Boating Association community , especially new members of Walter Sisulu University and the University of Fort Hare .
For more on the RMB National Squad ’ s road to the Olympics , watch Stories of Courage by scanning the code below .
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