Rowing is often described as one of the most physically and mentally demanding sports, and Humaid Timol is a testament to that.
The Grade 12 Parktown Boys’ High School learner discovered the sport in Grade 5, almost by chance, when a school programme offered him a glimpse into the world of oars and water. “I just wanted to see what it was about, and from there, I fell in love with it. I got to know some of the coaches, and that’s why I ended up coming to this school and eventually taking up rowing seriously.”
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For Humaid, rowing isn’t just a sport; it’s a lifestyle. Alongside his school commitments, he trains relentlessly, balancing early mornings on the water with his social life and schoolwork. “Rowing is incredibly demanding. Your mind and body have to work together. If your mind isn’t willing to take you there, your body won’t follow, but once you clear your mind, everything else falls into place.”
Humaid credits much of his progress to his coach, who has guided him throughout his rowing career. “He’s been with me since the beginning. The care and nurturing he shows have made a huge difference in how I approach the sport.” Family support is equally crucial. His brother, Aarif, and his parents have always encouraged him, often waking up early to help him prepare for training or competitions.
He explains that rowing is a team sport at heart. “You can be the fastest or fittest rower, but without teamwork and rhythm, you aren’t going anywhere.” Most of his competitions have been in four-person boats, where co-ordination is everything, though he occasionally rows in sculling boats, which use two blades per person.
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Among Humaid’s most cherished memories is representing Parktown at the prestigious Boat Race in Port Alfred – a race he has competed three times since Grade 9. “Being on the first team was a massive highlight.”
On the national stage, his U16 crew achieved a remarkable fourth-place finish, a feat that remains one of his proudest achievements.
Rowing has shaped more than just his athletic life. “It’s taught me discipline and time management. You can’t procrastinate. You have to juggle school, exams, and training. Every minute counts.”
Looking ahead, his goals are clear: Improve on his previous national performance at the upcoming SA Championships and, hopefully, secure a medal for his school. Humaid is more than a rower; he’s a young athlete learning life lessons one stroke at a time, and if his trajectory is anything to go by, South African rowing will be watching him for years to come.
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