Bryn Coudraye

Adelaide Rowing Club (SA)

Bryn Coudraye's career in rowing is defined by persistence, versatility, and a steady climb through the ranks of Australian rowing. Known for his dedication and team-oriented mindset, Bryn has competed in various boat classes—from eights to pairs—and has represented Australia on the international stage multiple times. His journey reflects both triumph and resilience, as he consistently improved year after year, earning national and international recognition for his performances.

Bryn’s rowing journey began with a steady rise through the junior ranks, showcasing his potential in the sport from a young age. In 2007, he competed at the Under 23 World Rowing Championships in the Coxless Four, where he and his crew placed 6th. This was just the beginning of a series of international experiences that would solidify Bryn's place in the Australian rowing community.

In 2008, Bryn again represented Australia at the Under 23 World Rowing Championships, this time finishing in 4th place in the Coxless Four. Although just missing out on a podium finish, this result continued to highlight his developing skill and potential on the world stage.

Bryn's performances began to attract more attention as he continued his progression into senior competition. In 2009, he made his mark at the World Rowing Championships, competing in the Men’s Eight and helping the crew to a 7th place finish. While the result was not a podium finish, it was an important stepping stone in Bryn's development, gaining valuable international racing experience at the highest level.

2009 Australian Eight with Bryn in five seat
Image from the Hebfotos collection

The 2010 season saw Bryn’s versatility on full display as he competed in a variety of boat classes. He began the year with the Coxless Pair at World Rowing Cup II, finishing 7th, before returning to the Coxless Pair at World Rowing Cup III, where he struggled to find form, finishing in 17th. However, Bryn's true potential emerged in the Coxed Pair at World Rowing Cup III, where he and his crew triumphed, securing 1st place. This victory was a significant milestone, proving Bryn's ability to perform under pressure and his capacity for success in different boat configurations.

The 2010 World Rowing Championships marked another step in Bryn’s career, where he competed in the Coxless Four and placed 7th, reinforcing his place in the Australian senior squad and providing him with the necessary experience to push for future success.

Bryn, on the left, at the start of his 2010 World Championships final
Image from the Hebfotos collection

Bryn’s international journey reached a peak when he was selected for the Men’s Eight at the 2012 London Olympics. Although the crew faced tough competition and finished in 6th place, the experience of competing at the Olympics provided invaluable insight and further solidified Bryn's ability to perform on the world’s biggest stage.

Bryn in four seat of the Olympic eight in 2012
Image from the Hebfotos collection

The 2012 World Rowing Cup II in the Men’s Eight saw the crew finish in 6th place, but they bounced back in World Rowing Cup III, finishing 2nd, showcasing their potential and setting the stage for future success. Bryn's resilience and consistency in both individual and team events were becoming increasingly evident.

2013 marked a significant year for Bryn, as he transitioned into the Coxless Pair, a boat class that would become a key part of his career. He triumphed at the National Championships, where he and his partner claimed 1st place in the Coxless Pair, solidifying his reputation in Australian rowing.

Bryn's success continued the international stage when he and his partner secured 2nd place at World Rowing Cup I in the Coxless Pair. However, at the 2013 World Rowing Championships, Bryn and his partner faced tough competition, finishing in 13th place. Despite the setback, Bryn’s experience in the pair was an important part of his growth as a rower, teaching him valuable lessons about the precision and teamwork needed in the sport.

Bryn’s journey continued in 2017, where he reached another high point in his career with a 1st place finish in the Coxless Four at the National Championships. This victory was a testament to his ongoing development and ability to lead and perform in a team-based boat. It also served as an affirmation of his place among Australia's top rowers.

Bryn Coudraye’s career in rowing is one of steady progress, adaptability, and perseverance. From his early years in the Under 23 ranks to his time in the Men’s Eight at the London Olympics, Bryn has proven himself to be a versatile and resilient athlete. While his international career may not have been defined by numerous podium finishes, his commitment to excellence, his ability to perform under pressure, and his unwavering dedication to his craft have made him a respected figure in Australian rowing.

Bryn has continued his support of the rowing through his involvement in South Australian school rowing.

Some key rowing highlights

2007 Under 23 World Rowing Championships Coxless Four – Sixth

2008 Under 23 World Rowing Championships Coxless Four – Fourth

2009 World Rowing Championship Men’s Eight – Seventh

2010 World Rowing Cup II Coxless Pair – Seventh

2010 World Rowing Cup III Coxless Pair – Seventeenth

2010 World Rowing Cup III Coxed Pair – First

2010 World Rowing Championship Coxless Four – Seventh

2011 World Rowing Cup III Men’s Eight – Seventh

2011 World Rowing Championship Men’s Eight – Fourth

2012 World Rowing Cup II Men’s Eight – Sixth

2012 World Rowing Cup III Men’s Eight – Second

2012 London Olympic Games Men’s Eight – Sixth

2013 National Championship Coxless Pair – First

2013 World Rowing Cup I Coxless Pair – Second

2013 World Rowing Championship Coxless Pair – Thirteenth

2017 National Championship Coxless Four – First

Jack Hargreaves
February 2025