West End’s Commercial Rowing Club is celebrating the selection of Scott McDonald and Flynn O’Loughlin in Australia’s Under 19 B Team for the 2026 International Rowing Challenge in the United States.
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The pair began their rowing journeys through Brisbane State High School before continuing their development with Commercial Rowing Club. In July, they will join Australia’s emerging rowing squad for the International Rowing Challenge, gaining valuable overseas racing experience as part of the national development pathway.
Years of dedication rewarded
Selection in the Australian Under 19 B Team follows years of steady development for both rowers, who have built strong reputations through consistent performances and commitment to the sport.
McDonald has been rowing for the past three years, beginning at Brisbane State High School before joining Commercial Rowing Club. His selection for Australia marks another milestone in his rowing journey.
On his Australian Sports Foundation fundraising page, McDonald describes that journey simply: “My name is Scott; I’ve been rowing for the last 3 years. First for Brisbane State High, then for Commercial Rowing Club, and now, hopefully, for Australia.”
That ambition has now become reality. Rowing Queensland has recognised McDonald as one of the state’s dependable young athletes, highlighting his consistency, composure under pressure and team-first attitude. He has also been recognised as a high-achieving student and a leader within his rowing program.
For O’Loughlin, the opportunity also carries family significance. He hopes to follow in the footsteps of his uncle, Ted O’Loughlin, who represented Australia at the 1974 World Championships.
After five years with Brisbane State High School’s rowing program and two years at Commercial Rowing Club, O’Loughlin has earned recognition for his leadership, composure under pressure and commitment to continually refining his technique. Rowing Queensland has also highlighted his curiosity, problem-solving approach and ability to take ownership of his own development.
His Australian Sports Foundation campaign reflects on another milestone in his rowing career. In 2025, O’Loughlin rowed in Brisbane State High School’s First VIII crew that finished third at the GPS Head of the River, marking the school’s first podium finish in 48 years.
The following year, O’Loughlin and McDonald paired together at the Australian Rowing Championships, where they won the silver medal in the pair event.
O’Loughlin’s fundraising campaign describes his selection for the International Rowing Challenge as the result of years of hard work, discipline and dedication both on and off the water.
McDonald and O’Loughlin were among five Queensland athletes congratulated by Rowing Queensland after being selected in Australia’s Under 19 B Team, alongside Maddi McLaughlin, Oliver Kent and Harriette O’Dwyer.
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The International Rowing Challenge will give the athletes valuable international racing experience as part of Australia’s rowing development pathway.
For Commercial Rowing Club in West End, the dual selection highlights the role community clubs can play in supporting young athletes as they progress from school rowing to international competition. As McDonald and O’Loughlin prepare to compete in the United States, they do so with the backing of their club, school and the wider Queensland rowing community.
Published 3-July-2026
