James's Story
James 'Jack' Robertson’s rowing career began with early victories at Melbourne Grammar School, including the APS Head of the River in 2014 and his first National Championship in the U17 men's eight.
Throughout the late 2010s Jack’s rowing prowess flourished, earning him titles at the U21 Australian Henley and the NSW State Championships, and a place at the prestigious Mercantile Rowing Club in Melbourne.
Transitioning to the USA, Jack attended the University of California in Berkeley from 2018 to 2021. There, he garnered silver medals in the second varsity eight at the IRA National Championships and Pac-12 Championships. His senior year brought him All-Pac-12 and IRCA All-American First Team honours.
In 2019, Jack debuted on the international stage at the U23 World Rowing Championship as part of Australia’s men’s eight crew. He also contributed to Victoria’s 2021 King's Cup victory and joined the Australian senior men’s eight as a reserve.
Pursuing a masters in Sociology, Jack moved to Oxford University, where he rowed to victory in the historic University Boat Race on the Thames in 2022. His domestic and international successes led to his selection for the national men’s squad in 2023.
During the 2023 season, Jack’s commitment was evident as he secured a silver medal at the World Rowing Cup II in Varese and a gold medal at the World Rowing Cup III in Switzerland. At the World Championships in Belgrade, his crew triumphed over rowing giants Germany and the USA to win their heat and a bronze medal in the A-Final, securing Australia’s spot in the 2024 Paris Olympics in the men’s eight.
After assisting the men's eight's qualifying run, Jack would transition to the coxless four, placing fourth at the 2024 World Rowing Cup II.
Read More
