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Marty Rabjohns

Sydney University Boat Club (NSW)

Marty Rabjohns’ rowing career is a story of determination, resilience, and a deep commitment to his sport. A product of The King’s School in Sydney, Marty’s journey in rowing was defined by his leadership as a coxswain, with his success spanning national and international stages. His career, from schoolboy rowing to the Olympic Games, was marked by consistent performances, remarkable achievements, and a willingness to push his crews to their limits. Let’s take a closer look at Marty’s career and the major milestones that shaped his legacy.

Marty's rise in the world of rowing began in the late 1990s. In 1998, while racing at the Under 23 level, he guided his crew to third place in the National Championship Under 23 Coxed Four and finished second in the Under 23 Eight, showing that he was already making a mark on the Australian rowing scene. His performance in these events positioned him as a coxswain with tremendous potential, someone capable of leading crews at the highest levels. In 2001, Marty earned another strong result in the National Championship Coxed Four, finishing second. That same year, his Under 23 Coxed Four earned a podium finish, further solidifying his growing reputation.

By 2004, Marty was a seasoned coxswain competing at both the national and international levels. He helped guide the Under 23 Eight to second place at the National Championships, but it was in the Interstate Eight where Marty truly came into his own. That year, his leadership on the water contributed to New South Wales’ victory in the King’s Cup, a prestigious event that marked a major milestone in his career. His role in that victory earned him widespread recognition as one of the country’s top coxswains.

2004 King's Cup - Marty on the left of NSW crew touching the cup
Image from Hebfotos

In 2005, Marty faced challenges but continued to perform strongly. His crew placed third in the National Championship Coxed Four, and in 2006, he was once again competing at the highest level. The Interstate Eight in the King’s Cup that year saw his crew finish third, but it was Marty’s performances in the World Rowing Cups that year that made waves. In the World Rowing Cup I in the Men’s Eight, his crew took third, and they went on to claim victory in World Rowing Cup II, giving Marty and his crew their first taste of international success. Despite a tough showing at the World Rowing Championships, where the Men’s Eight finished fourth, Marty had firmly established himself as an athlete capable of competing at the top level.

In 2007, Marty’s career continued with notable highs and lows. While his crew finished second in the National Championship Interstate Eight Kings Cup, the year was challenging at the international level. The World Rowing Cup II saw his Men’s Eight finish tenth, and they placed sixth in World Rowing Cup III. At the World Rowing Championships, Marty’s Coxed Pair placed a strong fourth, but the Men’s Eight struggled and finished eighth. These results were tough, but they provided valuable lessons that would fuel his determination moving forward.

2007 Australian Eight with Marty in coxswain seat
Image from Hebfotos

Marty’s 2008 campaign was a breakthrough year. He and his crew claimed victory in both the National Championship Coxed Four and the King’s Cup, capping off a stellar domestic season. His Men’s Eight also excelled on the world stage, claiming first place in the World Rowing Cup I, adding a prestigious international title to his resume. Although the crew finished fourth in World Rowing Cup II, Marty’s leadership remained unwavering. The 2008 Beijing Olympics was the pinnacle of his career. Despite an incredible effort from the Men’s Eight, they finished just outside the medals, securing sixth place. While it wasn’t the medal they hoped for, competing at the Olympics was a culmination of Marty’s years of hard work and sacrifice.

2008 Australian Eight racing at Lucerne with Marty coxing
Image from Krys Szatsznajder

Marty Rabjohns’ career was defined by his dedication to his role as a coxswain and his ability to lead with precision and clarity. From his early successes in schoolboy rowing at The King’s School to his time with Sydney University and representing New South Wales in the King’s Cup, Marty’s influence was felt across the Australian rowing community. His impressive results in the National Championships, his leadership during international World Rowing Cups, and his contributions to the Australian Men’s Eight at the 2008 Beijing Olympics are all testament to his skill and passion for the sport.

Throughout his career, Marty faced numerous challenges, but his unwavering resilience and leadership never faltered. Even when his crews didn't claim the top spots, Marty’s tactical skill and focus on team performance ensured that he was always one of the most respected coxswains in the sport. His results, from national titles to international podiums, speak to the kind of commitment that made him a standout figure in the world of rowing.

Marty Rabjohns leaves behind a legacy that not only highlights his competitive achievements but also the incredible role that coxswains play in shaping a crew's performance. His leadership, vision, and ability to navigate the pressures of international competition have inspired many rowers in Australia and beyond.

Some rowing highlights

1998 National Championship Under 23 Coxed Four – Third

1998 National Championship Under 23 Eight – Second

2001 National Championship Coxed Four – Second

2004 National Championship Under 23 Eight – Second

2004 National Championship Interstate Eight King’s Cup – First

2005 National Championship Coxed Four – Third

2006 National Championship Interstate Eight King’s Cup – Third

2006 World Rowing Cup I Men’s Eight – Third

2006 World Rowing Cup II Men’s Eight – First

2006 World Rowing Championship Men’s Eight – Fourth

2007 National Championship Coxed Four – Second

2007 National Championship Interstate Eight King’s Cup – Second

2007 World Rowing Cup II Men’s Eight – Tenth

2007 World Rowing Cup III Men’s Eight – Sixth

2007 World Rowing Championship Coxed Pair – Fourth

2007 World Rowing Championship Men’s Eight – Eighth

2008 National Championship Coxed Four – First

2008 National Championship Interstate Eight King’s Cup – First

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
April 2025