History-making coach joins Rowing Australia’s Para-rowing program

Christine MacLaren, Australia’s first Paralympic gold medal-winning rowing coach, has joined Rowing Australia (RA) as the new Para-rowing Lead Coach.

MacLaren made history by guiding the Australian PR3 Mixed Double Sculls crew to victory at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games alongside Chad King.

Now, she will team up with Para-rowing Head Coach James Loveday to further strengthen the national program.

Her empathetic, athlete-centred coaching style has consistently delivered exceptional results both nationally and on the world stage.

“Christine’s appointment marks a major step forward for Para-rowing in Australia,” RA Performance Director Paul Thompson MBE said.

Her proven leadership, dedication to athlete development and collaborative mindset are exactly what we need to sustain long-term success.”

Operating from the Reinhold Batschi National Training Centre in Canberra, MacLaren will work with Loveday to enhance elite training environments for para-athletes.

Her key responsibilities will include coaching national team crews,  lead performance-focused camps, talent identification initiatives and technical development strategies to expand Australia's depth in key Paralympic boat classes.

“Following Australia’s strongest Paralympic rowing performance in Paris, Christine’s expertise and ability to foster relationships in high-performance settings will be invaluable as we continue to grow,” Loveday said.

"We’re eager to collaborate and keep developing our para-athletes and programs.”

Under MacLaren’s leadership, Rowing Australia’s Para-rowing program is set to inspire the next generation of athletes and fans while pushing the limits of international competition.

MacLaren will officially begin her role on May 1, 2025, after completing her commitments with the South Australian Sports Institute.