Rowing: Auckland rower in heaven

By CLAIRE TREVETT

An Auckland rower has won an event at England's prestigious Henley Royal Regatta.

Leon Clement, aged 26, was in the Nottinghamshire coxed four who captured the Britannia Challenge Cup.

"I had always wanted to go over to Henley," he said.

"I just wanted to participate and enjoy the atmosphere. I never thought I would end up winning."

Clement's crew trailed Durham University A, the other finalist, for most of the 2150m race, but took the lead with about 500m to go, winning by three lengths.

Clubs and universities from all over the world enter the Challenge Cup, which attracted more than 60 crews this year. Avon Rowing Club, from Christchurch, were eliminated in the second round.

Clement, who competed at the Auckland Rowing Club for 13 years and went to England this year to train for Henley, said the support from New Zealanders was incredible.

"In the semifinal we had to beat Sydney Rowing Club. There were 250 Kiwis on a boat at the finish line, all screaming, chanting and going nuts.

"It was a very special moment."

Only two boats at a time can race on the river and the regatta, held annually since 1839, is a knockout tournament.

Clement said the history and international flavour of Henley made winning a special prize for rowers.

The other members of his Nottinghamshire crew were English. Clement said one had rowed for 10 years with the sole aim of winning at Henley.