Saints Rower Wins Gold for Team GB

Sophia Issberner strikes gold for GB rowing at the World University Games

History had already been made when St Andrews undergraduate Sophia Issberner pulled on her Team GB kit at the 2025 FISU World University Games in Germany – the first St Andrews student to represent Great Britain at any level in rowing. 

Lining up in the women’s eight final on Sunday alongside a crew of decorated young internationals, Issberner helped propel Team GB to gold past the likes of the US and hosts Germany.

Held this year across the Rhine-Ruhr Valley, the World University Games is one of the globe’s largest multi-sport student competitions, attracting over 10,000 athletes from over 150 countries. It’s a launchpad for many British Olympians, with previous competitors including sporting icons Jessica Ennis-Hill and Beth Tweddle. 

“It’s an incredible feeling to come away with a win at my first international competition,” the Saints rower emphasised. “Representing Great Britain has been an unforgettable experience and I’m so proud of what we achieved out there.”

Issberner’s win is testament to the strength of Saints Rowing, who are enjoying one of the most successful years in their history. The club celebrated their first ever win at the Henley Royal Regatta earlier in the month courtesy of postgrad Hansine Marshall.   

“Sophia’s inclusion in the GB squad is a landmark achievement for the University of St Andrews and a proud moment for our rowing programme,” said Saints Director of Rowing Lewis McCue. “Her dedication, work ethic, and commitment to excellence have been outstanding and this historic selection reflects the progress we’re making as a club.” 

With the wind in their sails (a play on words that doesn’t really work for rowing), the Saints will be eyeing more success in the coming academic year, with the race at Fours Head looming large in November. 

The highlight of the rowing calendar is the Saints Coastal Regatta in the spring. Attracting crews from across the UK, the regatta will be a stepping stone for many an international rower.

For the moment, the club will be rightly revelling in what was a proud weekend for Issberner and St Andrews rowing.

Image from Saints Sport