Grace Prendergast is an Olympic champion rower from New Zealand, recognized for her multi-medal performances in global competitions and her academic pursuits at the University of Cambridge. After securing a world championship title in the coxless four at the 2014 elite World Rowing Championships in Amsterdam, setting a world-best time of 6:14.36, Grace Prendergast established herself as a dominant force in women’s sweep rowing. That same year, her pivotal partnership with Kerri Gowler began, leading to a gold medal at the World Rowing U23 Championships with a new U23 Championship best time. Prendergast’s consistent performance continued, earning her two silver medals at the 2015 World Rowing Championships and a 4th place finish in the women’s eight at the 2016 Rio Olympics.

Throughout her career, Prendergast accumulated an impressive 15 premier national titles, demonstrating her consistent excellence at the highest level of the sport. Her pursuit of excellence culminated at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games (held in 2021), where Prendergast delivered historic performances. She and Kerri Gowler secured an Olympic gold medal in the Women’s Pair, setting a new world record in the semi-final at 6:47.41. Prendergast also earned an Olympic silver medal with the Women’s Eight, showcasing her versatility across disciplines.

Her exceptional contributions to sport were formally recognized with her appointment as a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit that same year. Grace Prendergast officially retired from professional rowing in October 2022, concluding a decorated career that included multiple world records, Olympic medals, and consistent top international rankings, leaving an indelible mark on the sport.