Robert Aitken MBE

Robert R. Aitken MBE had a distinguished and successful rowing career as an oarsman, coach, selector, and administrator. Affiliated with the Mercantile Rowing Club, Bob's contributions to rowing are profound.

He was the first elected President of Rowing Australia, where his leadership saw significant advancements in the sport, including the crucial appointment of Reinhold Batschi in 1979 and navigating the challenges posed by the Federal Government's push to withdraw from the Moscow Olympics.

His legacy includes life memberships with Rowing Australia, Mercantile Rowing Club, and the Victorian Rowing Association. Bob's notable achievements as a rower include stroking Geelong College's crew in 1940 and leading the Victorian men's eight to multiple victories in the early 1950s.

As a coach and selector, he played a pivotal role in Australia's success, guiding the men's eight to a bronze medal at the 1956 Olympics and serving on various international selection committees.

Bob Aitken's enduring impact on rowing is a testament to his dedication and vision for the sport.