Rhys Grant
ANA Rowing Club (WA)
Rhys Grant, from Western Australia, has carved a notable career in the world of rowing, with his journey spanning various national and international stages. From his early years as a Junior to his Olympic debut, Grant has consistently demonstrated remarkable skill and dedication in the sport. His versatility across multiple boat classes, particularly in Single Scull and Quad Scull, has earned him national titles, World Cup victories, and a place in the 2016 Rio Olympics. Below is a summary of his accomplished career.
Rhys Grant's rowing career began in earnest in 2003, when he won the National Championship Under 17 Double Scull, marking his early potential as a competitive rower. The following year, in 2004, he represented Australia at the World Rowing Junior Championships in the Coxless Four, finishing in 6th place. This international exposure set the stage for what would become an impressive rise in the sport.
By 2005, Grant had made his mark in the national scene, securing the National Championship Under 19 Quad Scull title. His progression continued through the following years, and by 2008, he had firmly established himself as one of Australia's top emerging rowers. That year, he claimed two National Championship titles in the Under 23 Coxless Four and the Under 23 Eight, showcasing his strength in both sweep and sculling boats.
Rhys on the left on his many visits to the podium at 2008 National Championships
Photo from the Guerin collection
At the 2008 World Rowing Under 23 Championships, Grant and his Coxless Four crew finished in 4th place, narrowly missing out on a podium position. Similarly, at the 2009 World Rowing Under 23 Championships, his Eight crew again placed 4th, further solidifying his ability to compete at the highest level among his peers.
In 2013, Grant began to transition to senior competitions with notable success. He claimed the National Championship Interstate Sculling President's Cup, a prestigious title in Australian rowing, in Single Scull, affirming his growing stature in the sport.
In 2014 he faced challenges at the World Rowing Cup III and the World Rowing Championships, where he placed 9th in the Quad Scull and 15th in the Quad Scull at the World Championships. Despite the setbacks, his performance in the Single Scull remained a highlight, reinforcing his versatility across different boat classes.
Rhys in the 2 seat of the Australian Quad at the World Championships
Photo courtesy of Rowing Australia
The year 2016 was pivotal for Rhys Grant. He dominated the National Championship scene, winning the Interstate Sculling President’s Cup for a second time. This victory was an important stepping stone as he prepared for international competition.
Grant’s greatest achievement that year came at the FISA European and Final Olympic Qualification Regatta, where he secured 1st place in the Single Scull, earning his spot in the 2016 Rio Olympics. The qualification was a culmination of years of hard work and dedication, as he became one of the few to secure a spot in the Single Scull event for Australia.
Rhys acknowledging supporters after his heat in the Rio Games
Photo from the Guerin collection
At the 2016 Rio Olympics, Grant competed in the Single Scull but finished 9th in the final. While the result was not the medal he had hoped for, the Olympic experience was a milestone in his career, showcasing his ability to compete at the highest level in the world.
Rhys Grant’s career has been one of steady progress, perseverance, and breakthrough moments. From his early days as a junior rower to his achievements on the world stage, including National Championships, World Cup victories, and an Olympic appearance, Grant has earned his place among Australia's elite rowers.
His victories in the Interstate Sculling President’s Cup, his World Rowing Cup I title in the Single Scull, and his qualification for the 2016 Rio Olympics all highlight his skill and consistency in the sport. His ability to perform across various boat classes, including Single Scull, Quad Scull, and Coxless Four, speaks to his adaptability and dedication. While his Olympic result was not as high as he had hoped, Rhys Grant’s impact on Australian rowing is undeniable. His journey serves as an inspiration to young rowers, illustrating the power of persistence.
Some rowing highlights
2003 National Championship Under 17 Double Scull – First
2004 World Rowing Junior Championships Coxless Four – Sixth
2005 National Championship Under 19 Quad Scull – First
2008 National Championship Under 23 Coxless Four – First
2008 National Championship Under 23 Eight – First
2008 World Rowing Under 23 Championship Coxless Four – Fourth
2009 World Rowing Under 23 Championship Eight – Fourth
2013 National Championship Interstate Sculling President's Cup – First
2014 World Rowing Cup I Men’s Single Scull – First
2014 World Rowing Cup III Quad Scull – Ninth
2014 World Rowing Championship Quad Scull – Fifteenth
2016 National Championship Interstate Sculling President's Cup – First
2016 FISA European and Final Olympic Qualification Single Scull – First
2016 Rio Olympic Games Single Scull – Ninth
Jack Hargreaves
May 2025