Revival, resilience, and results -Farewell to Mike Stanley
When Mike Stanley took over as President in 2006, North Shore Rowing Club was at a crossroads. Membership was low, the club had been absent from the NZ Championships, and its future looked uncertain. Mike, drawing on his own distinguished rowing background, provided the leadership and vision to steer the club into a new era.
From the outset, Mike focused on rebuilding strength both on and off the water. He helped mobilise parents, alumni, and supporters. He oversaw the growth of novice and school-leaver programmes, and fostered close ties with Westlake Boys and Girls High Schools. Under his guidance, the club quickly re-established itself as a competitive force, returning to the medals at the New Zealand Championships by 2008.
Mike was instrumental in aligning North Shore with Rowing NZ’s high-performance pathways. For years under Mike, the Rame Road shed supported the Auckland RPC, and a strong relationship with national programmes meant Shore athletes were consistently moving through to age group and elite squads. Mike championed this connection, believing the club should be a springboard for opportunity, whether that meant Olympic podiums, US college scholarships, or lifelong participation in the sport.
During his presidency, the club and affiliate results speak volumes: over 50 national titles (excluding RPC victories), five more Boss Rooster triumphs, a Maadi Cup win, and North Shore’s recognition as Rowing NZ Club of the Year in 2018. Under Mike’s leadership, Shore also contributed directly to some of Rowing New Zealand’s proudest international successes - including Olympic gold in the Men’s Eight at Tokyo 2021 and Olympic silver in the Men’s Four at Paris 2024.
Yet perhaps Mike’s greatest achievement was not measured in medals, but in community. He believed rowing should enrich lives, and he never missed a chance to remind members of this at the annual prize giving with his trademark rallying speeches. “Paint the lake blue”. Mike inspired people to give back, creating a culture where alumni, parents, and athletes contribute so that others may enjoy the sport as they once did. This ethos of service and belonging is now deeply embedded in the fabric of the club.
The challenges along the way were significant. From the disruptions of Covid-19, which forced three consecutive championships in Twizel, to the shifting landscape of high-performance structures and the end of the RPC system. But through each turn, Mike’s steady leadership ensured that North Shore not only endured but thrived.
By the time of the club’s 150th year in 2024, Mike could look back on a remarkable transformation: a thriving community, a competitive powerhouse, and a club culture as strong as it has ever been. His presidency leaves North Shore Rowing Club in blue, proud, and well-positioned for the future.
Eighteen years after stepping into the role, Mike Stanley departs with a legacy defined by excellence on the water and an enduring sense of community on shore.
Thank you Mike on behalf of
all North Shore Rowing Club,
past and present!
“This year Barrie Mabbott and I stepped down as officers of the club and were very happy to pass the "baton" to incoming President Mat Jensen and his capable team. The club is in good hands.
For me it marks the end of an era spanning nearly 40 years as a club official. I've many fond memories and take great pride in the achievement and passion of our rowers and coaches of all ages and stages.
At 150 years old, we are an institution on the North Shore. While there are challenges, as long as there are people willing to commit their time and passion, with the club's and rower's interest at heart , we will be around for another 150 and more.”
- Mike Stanley
Article by Mike Brake