Q&A with freshman Sarah Conlon
Oct. 10, 2003
Interests and hobbies outside of Rowing:
Surfing, Australian rules football, singing, the beach, socializing with my mates!
Why did you choose the University of Miami?
Being an Australian, I thought it would be an amazing experience. Also, I think it will be interesting seeing how rowing is portrayed from a different country.
What was your first impression of Miami?
Hot and HUMID! The university itself looked beautiful and the environment created by the students was very friendly.
Who is your favorite athlete, Why?
Cary Ablett: An Australian footballer, his perfection in the sport is to be admired also his courage and motivation is something to be inspired by.
Why did you start rowing?
It looked like a lot of fun and my sister rowed for school so the coaches already knew me and wanted me to row, although mainly because it did look like a lot of fun.
When did you start rowing?
1998-1999 (school rowing) when I was 13 years old.
What challenges did/do you face as a novice rower?
Dealing with the competitiveness of everyone within your own class all trying to succeed for the best boat, but knowing only 4 (quad) people would get in!
What changes have you recently made to improve your rowing technique?
Focusing more of the feel of the boat, learning what it feels like to row the perfect stroke.
What is your best rowing memory?
Winning Head of the Schoolgirls, as it was that race that we had been wanting to win for over two years!
Would you ever consider rowing as a “life sport”?
Absolutely! I think it is a fantastic sport for all ages and it provides great fitness and social activities as well.
Any superstitions before regattas?
Depends. . . but generally no, although I do have lucky undies!
What advice would you give young people?
I’d tell them to do what you love, set high goals and achieve them, and most importantly to smile! I believe it is the best thing you can do. Last but not least, seize the day because you only live once.
What did you do this summer?
I played on an Australian Rules Football team (Surrey Park), worked with children and had many, many laughs with my mates.
What are your goals at Miami both in sports and outside sports?
To learn about surviving on my own, to make decisions by myself and to make many friends; I want to learn rowing to improve standard, and learn more about the sport, and also to see and compare how differ ent training and life is here to the Australian way.
