Rowing star eyes new milestones after world success

Damien Bonhage-Koen may be one of South Africa’s top rowing talents, but there is more than just his achievements. Off the water, he’s a grounded, faith-driven man with a heart anchored in love, hard work, and a deep sense of purpose.

In September, Damien and his rowing partner, Christopher Baxter, represented South Africa in Shanghai, China, for the World Rowing Senior Championships, competing in two of the toughest events on the programme. Beginning his rowing journey in Grade Nine at King Edward VII School, Damien’s goals have always been set for higher milestones and more adventures.

Initially a basketball player, Damien only considered rowing professionally after high school, when the U23 World Championships presented a new opportunity.

“That was the turning point,” he says.

“I realised I might actually have what it takes to go senior. With not enough funding, I had to prove myself just to stay in the system.”

His recent fourth-place finish in Lucerne, Switzerland, was a strong signal that their team is headed in the right direction.

“That regatta showed us that the new national team and physiological programs are working. We’ve only been back in full-time training for five months, and we’re already seeing results,” Damien adds.

Damien sees each race as both a benchmark and a building block, which will eventually lead them to their team’s success.

He speaks with genuine fondness when asked about his rowing partner. He describes that he and Christopher are like brothers from another mother, and that’s why their work ethic is so productive when training together.

“We’re very different in some ways, but similar in all the ways that matter. We can have the tough conversations when needed, but also laugh and enjoy the journey. Chemistry is vital when you’re spending hours together in a boat or on training camps,” he says.

The champions were just a chapter in the bigger story. This regatta is part of an Olympic cycle for their team and gives them a chance to see where they stand and plan for the next competition in 2028.

“I hope South Africans see our performances and believe that even a small team like the Rand Merchant Bank National Squad can make a name on the world stage. We are proof that South Africans, no matter the odds, always find a way to succeed,” Damien says.

*This article was amended after it was published. The article previously stated that the rower’s name is Damien Bonhage-Micev, but the newspaper has since received feedback from the father that it should be Damien Bonhage-Koen. The Roodepoort Northsider apologises for any confusion caused.