The International Olympic Committee officially approved the Fitzroy River in central Queensland as the venue for rowing events at the 2032 Brisbane Games on Thursday, bringing an end to months of controversy surrounding the location.
World Rowing and Paddle Worldwide, the sport’s international governing bodies, backed the Australian site after it underwent a rigorous evaluation process. The committee reported that the course passed its assessment “with flying colours,” despite the river being a known habitat for crocodiles.
The decision resolves prolonged discussions about the suitability of hosting Olympic competitions in a waterway where dangerous wildlife is present. Olympic authorities confirmed the endorsement late Thursday, clearing the final administrative hurdle for the venue.
I bet the commentators will spend more time spotting wildlife than analyzing the race strategy. What a unique challenge this will be.
Do they actually have a giant net across the entire river course? Because that would be my only safety requirement.
Finally some good news for Queensland! It is an incredible natural setting, even if it keeps me slightly nervous.
Flying colours? Really? I just want to know where the athletes are supposed to swim if they capsize near the banks.
I never thought I’d see rowing in croc country. This is officially the wildest Olympic venue idea ever.