Kiwi Rower Zack Rumble Apologizes, Faces Alcohol Ban After Seattle Incident

One of New Zealand's top rowers, Zack Rumble, has issued a public apology following a controversial incident in Seattle that left him in police custody and resulted in a ban on alcohol consumption while representing the country's rowing team.

Rumble, a member of the New Zealand men’s elite rowing team, was arrested after a post-regatta celebration turned chaotic. According to official documents, Rumble fled from police during questioning and hid in a bush, prompting a dramatic chase that ended with his arrest on charges of assault and obstructing a public officer. The charges were later dismissed, but the incident has had lasting repercussions for both Rumble and the national team.

Rumble has accepted responsibility for his actions, stating, “I take full responsibility for my actions, what I did was wrong, and I acknowledge that it was not okay, and will never be acceptable.” He has been placed on a final warning by Rowing NZ and is now barred from drinking alcohol while representing the organization. Additionally, Rumble has agreed to undergo professional counseling and complete an alcohol education course.

The incident occurred on May 3 after the New Zealand rowing team participated in the Windermere Cup, a prestigious event in Seattle. Following the competition, the team was invited to a party at the Seattle Yacht Club, where Rumble reportedly caused multiple disturbances, including throwing empty cups at other guests. A patron later intervened after Rumble grabbed him around the waist, leading to a scuffle that left Rumble with a cut above his eye.

According to the Seattle Police Department’s official report, Rumble fled from police during questioning, prompting a chase that ended with him being found hiding under a bush. Officers described Rumble as “noncompliant in coming out with his hands up,” but he was eventually detained and taken into custody at 11:58 PM.

The incident sparked an independent review led by prominent sports lawyer Don Mackinnon, which found that Rumble's actions amounted to significant breaches of Rowing NZ's code of conduct and athlete agreement. Rowing NZ CEO Simon Wickham confirmed that Rumble would face a range of sanctions, including a “significant financial penalty” and a final written warning.

While Rumble was allowed to travel to Europe for World Cup events last month, the decision has raised concerns about the organization’s handling of the incident. Wickham emphasized that Rowing NZ’s response was “measured and appropriate,” and that the review ensured all team members had the opportunity to express their views about the tour.

Rumble has since formally apologized to Rowing NZ and affected athletes and staff, and is committed to ensuring that such an event never happens again. The incident has also highlighted the need for greater accountability and behavior expectations within the organization.

As the rowing community reflects on the incident, the focus remains on restoring trust and ensuring that athletes uphold the high standards expected of them. Rumble’s journey ahead will be closely watched, as he works to rebuild his reputation and continue his career on the international stage.