The aim of the programme is to improve coaching standards in Pakistan that will subsequently help in producing quality rowers who can compete at the highest level internationally. PHOTO: FILE
Cantwell, along with fellow Australian coach Alan Bennett, will be training local rowing coaches in a week-long workshop.
Cantwell also participated in the Spring Regatta on Sunday, where he topped the single scull event in the masters’ category.“I was forced to compete in the race,” a candid Cantwell told The Express Tribune. “I enjoyed the event. In fact, I was surprised how many young rowers are taking part in these events.
“My wife and I visited Karachi three years ago. The standard of rowing and the number of participants here has certainly improved. They have improved more than we had expected.”
Both foreigners are working with 14 local coaches that comprise three from the KBC and the rest from different schools.
The aim of the programme is to improve coaching standards in Pakistan that will subsequently help in producing quality rowers who can compete at the highest level internationally.
“We’ll be passing on knowledge to the local coaches,” said Cantwell, who also works with the Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club. “The coaches here are very experienced but they need to have more structure in the programme. Most of them perform naturally, but we’ll be working with them to impart formal techniques.”
The Melbourne-based coach said that the local talent has the potential to perform well internationally.
“It’s good to see so many children enjoying the sport. They need opportunities to go elsewhere.”
He further said that coming to Pakistan has been an adventure for him and Bennett.
“We’re safe. We have friends here, we are Australian and we are adventurous, it’s all good.”
Meanwhile, KBC Captain of Boats Arif Ikram said that the number of coaches has also increased during the last three years.
“We had three local coaches the last time Cantwell came here,” said Ikram. “We want to start the international rowing level-1 certification courses for coaches and KBC is very keen on that.”
Published in The Express Tribune, April 15th, 2014.
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