Sophia Wightman

QLD | Sydney University Boat Club

Brisbane-born rower Sophia “Soph” Wightman has built a reputation as a technically skilled and determined competitor, combining her love of the sport with an unwavering commitment to improvement. A graduate of St Margaret’s Anglican Girls’ School in Ascot, QLD, Sophia was introduced to rowing through her older sister, deciding to give it a go after excelling in hockey and basketball as a junior.

Her talent was quickly evident. Sophia represented Australia in the women’s single scull at the 2021 World Rowing Under 19 Championships, returned to the national stage as part of the U21 team in the women’s quad scull in 2023, and competed in the women’s double scull at the 2024 World University Championships. Domestically, she has claimed multiple Australian Rowing Championship titles, including the 2025 U23 women’s quad scull and the 2023 U21 women’s single.

Now training with Sydney University Boat Club while studying Biomedical Engineering at the University of Sydney, Sophia also shares her expertise as a casual rowing coach. Guided initially by her first coach, Richard Powell at UQBC, she has developed a racing style centred on technical precision and speed.

Her most treasured sporting memories include winning her first national title and representing Queensland in the state team, moments that have reinforced her drive to “give it her all” every time she gets on the water. Away from rowing, Sophia enjoys spending time with her dogs, painting by numbers, and heading to the beach to surf.

With a focus on refining her skills and embracing every challenge, Sophia continues to aim high as she pushes for new personal bests in 2025 and beyond.

Sophia is currently a member of the Australian Coastal Mixed Quad Sculls. 

Last updated August 11, 2025.