The London 2012 single sculls gold medallist and five-time world champion from New Zealand (pictured top) will join FISA President Denis Oswald and Parmigiani Fleurier chief executive Jean-Marc Jacot as they choose the inaugural winner of the title which recognises a university rower who has achieved exceptional successes in different areas of their life.

"It's great to be involved in such a fantastic opportunity for university rowing clubs," said Drysdale, who also won Olympic bronze at Beijing 2008.

"I took up rowing at the University of Auckland so I know from personal experience how important university rowing is to the sport.

"This is a great chance to acknowledge a student rower and for a university rowing club to win a new eight."


The award is open to current university students worldwide who study full time and row regularly for a university rowing club.

The winner will receive a handcrafted Parmigiani Fleurier watch and the winner's club will be presented with a new racing eight boat.

"Mahé was introduced to rowing by his university club," Oswald added.

"Throughout his career he has been a magnificent ambassador for the core values of rowing.

"He is the ideal judge for the Parmigiani Spirit Award."

University rowers have until June 30 to submit nominations here.

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