New Zealand Rowers Emma Twigg, Kerri Williams, and Grace Prendergast Nominated for World Rowing Awards

Three New Zealand rowers have garnered international recognition through nominations for prestigious awards by World Rowing. Emma Twigg is in contention for the Women’s Crew of the Year award, while Kerri Williams and Grace Prendergast are finalists for the esteemed Thomas Keller Medal, which honors significant contributions to the sport of rowing.

Emma Twigg’s Remarkable Achievement

Emma Twigg’s nomination comes after her impressive victory at the World Beach Sprint Finals held in Turkey in November 2025, where she secured the solo title in single sculls. This achievement has elevated her status in the rowing community, and she now aims to compete in the inaugural beach racing event at the 2028 LA Olympics.

At 38 years old, Twigg is a seasoned athlete, known for her past accolades as both an Olympic and world champion in single sculls. Her transition from traditional rowing to beach racing marks a new chapter in her illustrious career.

Williams and Prendergast: A Legacy of Excellence

Kerri Williams and Grace Prendergast, both celebrated figures in New Zealand rowing, have been nominated for the Thomas Keller Medal. This award is named after the renowned Swiss oarsman and is given to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional skill and dedication to the sport. Together, Williams and Prendergast have won one Olympic title and three coxless pairs championships. Their collaboration on the water has made a significant impact on women’s rowing in New Zealand.

Kerri Williams, who competes under her maiden name Gowler, boasts an impressive record that includes three Olympic medals and five World Championship titles. Grace Prendergast has also excelled, securing two Olympic medals and five world titles throughout her career.

In a historic moment for New Zealand sports, Williams and Prendergast became the first female athletes from the country to win a World Rowing Championship title in two events during the same year in 2019, triumphing in both the Women’s Pair and the Eight.

Emma Twigg faces tough competition for the Women’s Crew of the Year award. She is up against the world championship-winning Dutch eight and the Romanian pair, both of which have also made significant contributions to the sport.

Historically, New Zealand has seen five athletes receive the Thomas Keller Medal, including the Evers-Swindell twins in 2016, Eric Murray and Hamish Bond in 2018, and Mahe Drysdale in 2022. The winners of this year’s awards will be announced in January 2026, marking an exciting moment for these talented athletes and their supporters.

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