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australian rowers profiles and history

William O'Shannessy

Sydney University Boat Club (NSW)

William O’Shannessy’s rowing career has been defined by an impressive series of successes at both the national and international levels. Representing New South Wales and having attended St Joseph’s College in Hunters Hill, William has steadily established himself as one of the most talented and versatile rowers in Australia. His career is marked by consistent victories in multiple boat classes and a growing presence in international competition.

William’s rise in rowing began in 2018, a breakout year that would set the tone for the rest of his career. At the National Championships, he dominated the Under 23 Coxless Four, leading his crew to a first-place finish. He also played a vital role in the Under 23 Men’s Eight, helping his crew win another first-place title, and showed his versatility with an Under 21 Coxless Pair victory. William’s success continued with a first-place finish in the Interstate Men’s Youth Eight, further cementing his place among the country’s elite rowers.

In 2019, William continued his impressive form. He won first place in both the Under 23 Coxless Pair and the Interstate Men’s Youth Eight at the National Championships, underscoring his consistency and ability to perform in various crew configurations. While he faced a challenge at the World Rowing Under 23 Championships, where his crew finished ninth in the Coxless Four, this result was part of the process of refining his craft at the international level. It was a reminder of the fierce competition at the world stage, but it also spurred William’s desire to keep improving.

The year 2022 saw William’s growth continue, especially in the Open category. He won the National Championship in the Open Coxless Pair, marking a significant milestone in his career as he took on the country’s top rowers. His Interstate Men’s Eight also triumphed at the National Championships, capturing another first-place finish.

He then joined the senior Australian team racing at World Cup 3 and at the World Championships in the eight with excellent results - second at the World Cup and bronze at the Championships.

William on right hand side - picture courtesy of World Rowing

In 2023, William’s success in the Open Coxless Four continued, as he helped his crew secure a first-place finish at the National Championships. He also played a pivotal role in the Interstate Men’s Eight, which again claimed first place, continuing his streak of dominance in team events.

2023 King's Cup podium - William second from right - Photo from the Guerin collection

William O’Shannessy’s career thus far has been one of steady progression, marked by victories in both national and international competitions. His consistent success at the National Championships in multiple boat classes—including the Coxless Four, Coxless Pair, and Men’s Eight—demonstrates his versatility and leadership within the Australian rowing community. His international results, including podium finishes at World Rowing Cup events and the World Rowing Championships, showcase his growing ability to perform on the world stage.

Some rowing highlights

2018 National Championship Under 23 Coxless Four – First

2018 National Championship Under 23 Men’s Eight – First

2018 National Championship Under 21 Coxless Pair – First

2018 Interstate Championships, Wilkinson Cup for Men’s Youth Eight – First

2019 National Championship Under 23 Coxless Pair – First

2019 National Championship Interstate Men’s Youth Eight – First

2019 World Rowing Under 23 Championships Coxless Four – Ninth

2022 National Championship Open Coxless Pair – First

2022 Interstate Championship, King's Cup – First

2022 World Cup 3, Men's Eight - Second

2022 World Championships, Men's Eight - Third

2023 National Championship Open Coxless Four – First

2023 Interstate Championship, King's Cup – First

2023 Australian Senior team

Jack Hargreaves
January 2025

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