David Dennis

University of WA Boat Club (WA)

David Dennis’s career in rowing is marked by a series of impressive performances, strong leadership, and a consistent presence in some of the world’s most prestigious competitions. His journey took him from success at the junior and Under-23 levels to a decorated international career, where he became known for his commitment and versatility in the sport.

Early Achievements and Under-23 Success (2000-2001)

David’s rise to prominence began in 2000, where he showcased his potential at the Australian National Championships. He and his crew took second place in the Under 23 Coxless Four, followed by a first-place finish in the Under 23 Eight and a first-place finish in the Interstate Youth Eight. These victories marked him as a rower to watch, as he demonstrated not only his talent but his ability to excel in team events.

David also earned international recognition that year, finishing second in the Under 23 Coxless Four at the World Rowing Under 23 Championships, continuing to build his reputation on the world stage.

In 2001, David continued to thrive. He raced in the Under 23 Coxless Pair, earning a second-place finish at the Australian National Championships, and his Under 23 Coxless Four crew won first place. He also helped secure first place in the Under 23 Eight, proving his dominance in these boat classes. At the World Rowing Cup IV, he and his Men’s Eight finished fifth, and at the 2001 World Rowing Championships, his Men’s Eight finished seventh, highlighting his ability to compete at the highest level.

David front left on the podium after winning 2001 National Championship Under 23 Four- the first and second placed crews all having fun with their hair styles
Photo from Hebfotos collection

Solidifying his position in Senior Competition (2002-2003)

In 2002, David’s competitive edge remained strong. He helped his crew claim second place in the Coxless Four at the Australian National Championships, and his Interstate Eight finished second at the same event. On the international stage, he competed at the World Rowing Cup III, where his Men’s Eight took second place. At the 2002 World Rowing Championships, David’s Men’s Eight finished seventh, reinforcing his consistency at world-class competitions.

By 2003, David had become an established figure in the Australian rowing team. He raced in the Coxless Four, winning first place at the Australian National Championships. His Interstate Eight finished second, while his Men’s Eightcontinued to perform strongly internationally, with a third-place finish at the World Rowing Cup III and a fifth-place finish at the World Rowing Championships—solid results that kept him at the forefront of Australian rowing.

Olympic Glory and Continued Excellence (2004)

David’s career reached its pinnacle in 2004, as he competed at the Athens Olympic Games. He raced in the Coxless Four, and while the crew finished fourth, just outside the medal positions, it was still a remarkable achievement to represent Australia at the Olympic Games. Earlier that year, at the World Rowing Cup III, his crew finished fourth in the Coxless Four, showing that they were competitive on the world stage.

The Four at the 2004 Athens Games at the start - David in stroke seat
Photo from Hebfotos collection

Later Career and Consistent Leadership (2007-2008)

David’s leadership and experience continued to be valuable assets as he progressed in his career. In 2007, he helped the Interstate Eight secure third place at the Australian National Championships, and in 2008, he repeated this feat with another third-place finish in the Interstate Eight.

David on the podium of 2008 Interstate Eights Championships for the King's Cup
From the Hebfotos collection

In 2008, David’s performance in the Men’s Eight was noteworthy. He helped secure a first-place finish at the World Rowing Cup I, showcasing his ability to lead a world-class crew. However, at the World Rowing Cup II, the Men’s Eight finished fourth, and at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, the team finished sixth, just shy of a podium finish but still a competitive result on the Olympic stage.

Legacy and Conclusion

David Dennis’s career is defined by his versatility, leadership, and consistent performance at the highest levels of rowing. From his early victories in the Under 23 and Junior categories to his impressive achievements at the World Rowing Championships, World Rowing Cups, and the Olympics, David demonstrated a rare combination of skill, endurance, and team-oriented success.

His dedication to the sport, demonstrated by his multiple podium finishes in the Coxless Four, Men’s Eight, and Interstate Eight, cements his legacy as one of Australia’s most dedicated and successful rowers. Although his Olympic campaigns did not result in medals, David’s contribution to Australian rowing is undeniable, and his career remains an example of persistence and excellence in the sport.

Some rowing highlights

2000 Australian National Championship Under 23 Coxless Four – Second

2000 Australian National Championship Under 23 Eight – First

2000 Australian National Championship Interstate Youth Eight - First

2000 World Rowing Under 23 Championship Coxless Four – Second

2001 Australian National Championship Under 23 Coxless Pair – Second

2001 Australian National Championship Under 23 Coxless Four – First

2001 Australian National Championship Under 23 Eight – First

2001 Australian National Championship Interstate Eight – Third

2001 World Rowing Cup IV Men’s Eight – Fifth

2001 World Rowing Championship Men’s Eight – Seventh

2002 Australian National Championship Coxless Four – Second

2002 Australian National Championship Interstate Eight – Second

2002 World Rowing Cup III Men’s Eight – Second

2002 World Rowing Championship Men’s Eight – Seventh

2003 Australian National Championship Coxless Four – First

2003 Australian National Championship Interstate Eight – Second

2003 World Rowing Cup III Men’s Eight – Third

2003 World Rowing Championship Men’s Eight – Fifth

2004 World Rowing Cup III Coxless Four – Fourth

2004 Athens Olympic Games Coxless Four – Fourth

2007 Australian National Championship Interstate Eight – Third

2008 Australian National Championship Interstate Eight – Third

2008 World Rowing Cup I Men’s Eight – First

2008 World Rowing Cup II Men’s Eight – Fourth

2008 Beijing Olympic Games Men’s Eight – Sixth

Jack Hargreaves
May 2025