WITH AN SLR BOAT IN THE 2024 OLYMPICS, THE OPPORTUNITY TO EXPAND AND SUPPLY BOATS TO AN INTERNATIONAL ROWING COMMUNITY WAS TOO GOOD TO IGNORE.
The SLR team always strives for success above and beyond what’s already been achieved. So, on the back of designing and manufacturing an elite single scull for World Champion rower Emma Twigg for her 2024 International campaign and a chance meeting with a UK/Europe boat distributor named Gavin, it seemed fairly obvious where we needed to focus next.
Gavin Kerr is a passionate rower and has been working in the industry for a considerable number of years. After Gavin arranged for the transportation of Emma’s boats in Europe, he approached us about helping us launch SLR in the European market and we couldn’t wait to bring him on board. Here’s a bit more about our newest team member.
Where do you live?
I am originally from Stirling, Scotland. I now live in Reading, which is 2 miles from Caversham, 6 miles from Henley, 20 Miles from Dorney Lake, and 40 miles from London. It is right in the middle of the Thames Valley, where 60% of all UK Rowing takes Place. I still get out in my single a few times a week. I have been renovating an old house and garden. I live with my partner Tudor and our two dogs and a cat.
What is your background with rowing?
I started at Stirling Rowing Club when I was 15. I moved south to England in 1998. I continued to row and coach until 2021, when I made my hobby my job by becoming the UK and European distributor for an international boat manufacturer.
How did your relationship with SL Racing come about?
I was asked to deliver two singles to Vasese, Italy, for Emma Twigg. I saw how fantastic the singles were and contacted Simon about selling them in the UK and Europe.
What will your role be for SL Racing?
I will be the SLR UK and European Distributor for UK and Europe.
What is your opinion of SL Racing boats?
I think they are excellent. It’s fantastic to have a quality boat at a competitive price finally.
What is their main point of difference from other boat designers/manufacturers?
SL Racing boats have been designed and built by rowers so that rowers can win!
What was the main driver for you wanting to represent SL Racing in the UK/Europe?
The current market is dominated by other international competitors, and I wanted to be involved with a brand that competes in the UK and Europe and is at the top of its game.
What are your goals for SL Racing in the UK/Europe in the coming months/years?
I would like SLR to take advantage of the current gap in the market for their top-performing products. Firstly, SLR should target schools and universities to get on the water, as this is a great gateway to opening up the market and getting exposure at the National level.
The 4-8-year plan is to have lots of boats at the Olympics eventually.
