Tara Rigney

Biography

Growing up in Sydney, Tara Rigney was an active and determined child who initially excelled in netball, representing her U19 state team in 2016 and 2017. However, two significant ACL injuries shifted her path towards rowing, a sport where she would go on to make a considerable impact. After being recognized as a talent by the NSW Institute of Sport, Tara was invited to join the women's national training centre in Penrith in 2021. That same year marked her Olympic debut at the Tokyo 2020 Games in the women’s double scull, where she impressively reached the semi-finals alongside Amanda Bateman and ultimately finished seventh overall.

Continuing her upward trajectory, Tara became a national champion in both the women's single and double sculls in 2021, further cementing her talent. She won bronze at the 2022 World Rowing Cup II in Poznan, silver at World Cup III in Lucerne, and a bronze medal at the 2022 World Rowing Championships as a single sculler. Her 2023 season saw her claim a second national crown in the single scull, along with a silver performance at World Cup III, and a finalist spot in the Princess Grace Cup.

In 2024, Tara achieved her third national single scull title with a commanding win at the Sydney International Regatta Centre. She continued her strong form at World Rowing Cup II in Lucerne, clinching a silver medal and showing she’s a genuine contender for the Paris 2024 Olympics. Beyond rowing, Tara is pursuing a Bachelor of Commerce at the University of Sydney, reflecting her dedication both on and off the water.