The year was 2004 and the Old Eds Rowing Club, at that time the dominant force in South African rowing – was looking to relocate its boat club, shed and equipment. Four intrepid Eds members and national oarsmen, one of whom is the first South African Olympic rowing medallist, sought appropriate land on the banks of their favourite and beloved rowing water – Roodeplaat Dam.

A plot with an old farmhouse nestled on the water bank was found and acquired . Soon the dream of a boat shed evolved to one of a business – one that could assist in financially sustaining athletes in a sport that received notoriously little funding.

Initially, the farmhouse was home to national oarsmen who based themselves on the property whilst training on the water. One of whom, Sizwe Ndlovu, went on to win a gold medal at the London Olympic Games in 2012.

In around 2006 the development of The Blades began in earnest.

Scope creep was the order of the day, and what started out as a few conference rooms – soon evolved into a fully-fledged four-star hotel and conference venue.

A project of this scale required substantial capital – and in what can surely be described as a poster child for public/private partnership, The Blades secured funding from the IDC to secure the balance of the money to enable completion.

In 2010 the first phase of construction was completed – with additional rooms and facilities added over time.

Covid took its toll on the hospitality industry, but once again, with the support of its development partner and shareholders – The Blades is close to completing a fully-fledged upgrade and the rejuvenation is clear to see.

From entrances, grounds, furniture as well as décor – The Blades is a joy to visit and hard to leave. The rowing genesis of the property is subtly captured in the architecture and décor – making it a truly unique experience.

Fittingly, The Blades was jewel in Tshwane’s tourism crown, when Roodeplaat Dam hosted The World Masters Rowing Regatta in September of 2023. A hugely successful event, the first ever international rowing regatta on African soil – in no small part made more enjoyable for athletes from across the globe due to The Blades; its involvement and its hospitality.

To this day, athletes launch their boats from the grassy banks of the property – and still get as excited as the first time we rowed from here 18 years ago.

We invite you to come and experience the history, nature and tranquility of this truly unique venue.

The Blades welcomes you
Ramon, Cliff, Paul and Bruce