Simon Keenan

Biography

Simon Keenan's journey into rowing began at Xavier College in Melbourne, and it wasn’t long before he started making waves in the sport. In 2010, he represented Melbourne University Boat Club and clinched the Fawley Challenge Cup at the Henley Royal Regatta. Just a year later, he was part of the men’s eight that took the Thames Challenge Cup, showcasing his prowess early on.

Representing Victoria, Simon bagged the Noel Wilkinson Trophy in the youth eight category at the 2011 Australian Rowing Championships. His talents earned him a scholarship to Yale University, where he competed in various US collegiate regattas, consistently rowing in the top boats.

Continuing his rise, Simon participated in the U23 World Rowing Championships, first in 2013 with the men's coxed four and then in 2014 with the U23 men's eight, where his team secured impressive finishes. By 2017, he was a vital member of Rowing Australia’s Reinhold Batschi National Training Centre, contributing to significant international results, including a silver medal at the 2018 World Rowing Championships.

Simon’s consistent performances saw him compete in the men’s eight at the 2019 World Championships, which led to qualifying for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, where his team put forth a commendable effort, finishing sixth. Post-Tokyo, Simon continued to excel, achieving victories at national competitions and silver medals at World Rowing Cups.

In 2023, Simon transitioned to competing in the men's pairs, a shift that paid off as he, along with his partner Fergus Hamilton, secured Australia a spot at the Paris 2024 Olympics. Simon will partner with Patrick Holt as he aims for Olympic glory in Paris.