World Rowing Rules Out Fitzroy River as 2032 Olympics Venue
The International Rowing Federation (World Rowing) has made a decision regarding the potential hosting of rowing competitions at the 2032 Olympics in Australia, on the Fitzroy River, which is inhabited by numerous crocodiles. According to a statement from World Rowing, cited by the TASS news agency, the river was not subjected to a technical feasibility study that would have confirmed its suitability for hosting national or international competitions. Contrary to earlier reports, no national championships or Australian rowing championships have been held on the river.
Earlier, the authorities of the Australian state of Queensland had proposed using the Fitzroy River as an Olympic course. The Daily Mail reported that the 630-kilometer river, located north of Brisbane, is known for its crocodiles. According to press reports, for instance, crocodiles were spotted on the grounds of a golf club near the river within the city limits in January. Despite this, the government had planned to present its plan for the Olympic event and the president of the Fitzroy Rowing Club, Sarah Black, emphasized that media reports on the topic were “exaggerated.” The authorities also stated that, if the IOC and World Rowing agree, the Fitzroy crocodiles would be removed from the river and relocated to new habitats.
Now, the competitions will not be held on the Fitzroy River. The reason for the decision, however, is not the presence of crocodiles, but the river’s unique currents. The Australian Rowing Federation explained that the stronger current in the middle, deeper part of the river creates an “unfair advantage.