Steedman won the second heat of three, comfortably qualifying for the final in perfect conditions at the Sydney International Regatta Centre in Penrith. The Taree sculler moved out to an early lead of three boat lengths and stretched this to five by the finish, claiming a central lane for the final.

Kinross Wolaroi's Daniel Whitehead dominated the final, blasting out to a three length lead after 500 metres and by halfway had gained another before romping to a six boat length win. Steedman was in the medal mix for most of the race before being outpowered in the closing stages.

Two scullers from The Cathedral School in Townsville claimed second and fourth, while a second sculler from Kinross Wolaroi in Orange took the bronze medal, indicating the strength and breadth of the 27 boat field.

Steedman was considering a trip to the Australian championships in Nagambie, Victoria in the first week in March, however this was based upon a medal placing at these championships. The 15-year-old will now turn his attention to the Central District Association Championships on the Manning River on March 13 and 14.