National rowing coach Roger Barrow has been recognised for his efforts in lifting the status of the sport in South Africa, after being named World Rowing Coach of the Year.

“Roger Barrow has spearheaded the development of elite rowing in South Africa,” global body World Rowing said in a statement on Friday, confirming he had received the accolade.

Barrow, who guided the SA men’s lightweight four to gold at the London Olympics in 2012, produced superb results at the Rio Games in August.

The national squad had hoped to return home from Rio with a handful of medals, but only the men’s pair of Shaun Keeling and Lawrence Brittain were able to step on the podium after bagging silver.

The improved depth in the team was significant, however, and with Barrow’s assistance, five SA boats reached A finals in their events.