From Victoria Lake to the World Stage - Germiston’s Obinna Nnamani to Represent South Africa at U19 World Rowing Champs

Germiston High School Rowing Club, Gauteng’s oldest school rowing club established in 1953, is once again making waves—this time on the global stage. Nestled alongside the serene waters of Victoria Lake, the club boasts a proud history of producing national rowing greats, including Sean Kerr (former RowSA president), Roger Tobler, Roy Pepper, and Ross Hawkins, to name a few. Now, the legacy continues with rising star Obinna Nnamani and coach Lwazi Zwane, who will represent South Africa at the U19 World Rowing Championships in Lithuania.

Obinna, selected to stroke the Coxless Four—one of the premier junior boats—has rapidly emerged as one of the country’s top young rowers. His journey to national selection has been nothing short of remarkable. Despite having limited experience in sweep rowing, he demonstrated exceptional adaptability, composure, and rhythm—qualities that earned him a seat at the helm of his boat. Inspired by Olympic gold medallist Sizwe Ndlovu, Obinna has embraced the responsibility and prestige of leading his crew.

For Coach Lwazi Zwane, the moment is especially meaningful. A Germiston High alumnus himself, Lwazi matriculated in 2020, just as the pandemic dashed his dreams of earning junior national colours. Missing a medal by mere centimetres at SA Champs in his final school race, Lwazi turned his disappointment into purpose. Returning to Germiston as a coach, he set out to transform the club’s culture from participation to podiums, building on the foundation laid by former coach Lebo Mashigo.

Watching Obinna bring home two bronze medals at this year’s SA Champs—in the Single Scull and Double Scull (with partner Thokozani Ndlovu)—was a moment of vindication and healing for Lwazi. “It feels like this was meant to be,” he reflects, noting the poetic symmetry that Obinna was born in 2008, the last year a Germiston rower (Mitchell Phungo) earned junior national colours.

With the U19 World Championships fast approaching, the energy at Germiston High School Rowing Club is electric. “The boat is going really well,” says Lwazi. “We’re excited for what awaits us in Lithuania.” More than just medals, Obinna’s success has ignited inspiration across the club. “There are so many youngsters who’ve been motivated by what he’s achieved. We’ve had an incredible turnout of Under 14s and Under 15s this season.”

From the storied banks of Victoria Lake to the international spotlight, Obinna Nnamani is not just carrying Germiston’s legacy—he’s shaping its future.

For more information, visit rowsa.co.za or follow @rowingrsa/@rmbnationalsquad on social media.