The South African Coastal Rowing Association (SACRA) is driven by a passionate team advancing the growth of coastal rowing across the country. They lead the development of athletes and coaches, engage with the community, host world-class coastal events, and build vibrant rowing communities along South Africa’s shores — all with a clear mission: to put South Africa firmly on the global coastal rowing stage.
KATE GODFREY
PRESIDENT & COACH
Kate Godfrey leads the association with passion and expertise, driving the vision of SACRA and ensuring the successful execution of coastal rowing events.
EVELIEN GRIFFIOEN
COACH
Former Head Coach of UCT Rowing, she led the club to historic back-to-back victories at the RMB University Boat Race and was awarded UCT Sports Coach of the Year 2024 for her impact on athlete development and team culture. Evelien now brings her expertise to coastal rowing while serving as Head Coach at PGRC (Peninsula Girls Rowing Club).
BILL GODFREY
NATIONAL HEAD COACH
Bill Godfrey brings deep experience and a strong track record in athlete development and high-performance coaching. He will lead the nation’s push to build a world-class coastal rowing programme and compete on the international stage.
AVLYN GALLWEY
COACH
Avlyn is a World Rowing Umpire and Masters rower, gold medalist in the W4x at the 2023 World Masters. She is Vice President of the KwaZulu-Natal Rowing Association and Durban Rowing Club. Avlyn is passionate about athlete development and dedicated to growing Coastal Rowing in South Africa
RUHAN BOOYENS
JUNIOR COACH
Based in East London, Coach B first took up rowing in 2011 and quickly fell in love with the sport’s mix of challenge and teamwork. After years on the water, he began coaching in 2017 and now leads South Africa’s Junior National Coastal Rowing Team. He believes consistent effort, stepping outside your comfort zone, and always chasing improvement are what turn good rowers into great ones.