1. What inspired you to go to your first rowing practice; was there anything memorable about it?
It was my sophomore year at Bonner and I was a little burned out from running track the past year and a half. My buddy, Jeff Lane, started rowing the year before and suggested I give crew a try. In order to get to where rowing practice was being held you actually have to walk through where the track team is stretching out. The first day I was walking though with my head down trying not to get noticed when one of the track coaches saw me. He actually yelled out, "You'll be back." I guess not. I did end up running cross country the following two years, but track became secondary. Thanks Jeff!
2. Was there a practice, race or other event when you fell in love with the sport, or when you knew you might not be too bad at rowing? When you thought you could make the national team?
No. I actually was quite resistant to try out for the national team. It was only at the repeated behest of J.R. (Jason Read) that I was finally willing to throw my hat in the ring. Thanks Chief!
3. Best race/practice, worst race/practice?
Any practice that I do not learn something would have to be the worst practice ever. I have not made it yet, so I am still learning quite a bit. Well that or having to put up with Volp as your stroke man, they can be pretty rough too! Best practices are when you win all the pieces. That does not often happen on the National Team, but when it does you treat yourself to a drink of choice. Thanks team!
4. Best/Anything you've done in the sport no one knows about?
I know Josh Inman's secret identity. Actually I think the coolest thing I did was double up and won Gold and Silver at the 2005 World Rowing Championships in Gifu, Japan in the eight and coxed four, respectively. It was all so fast and exciting and completed in about 90 minutes. That experience was made even cooler when Chip came up and said, "man I wish I did that before I retired!!!" Thank you to all the guys that pulled (or pushed) me down that course that day!
5. Any/Most important advice for young rowers?
Just have fun. Its only rowing.
And to all who have helped me get this far, you know who you are, thank you.
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08/07/2008 1:45:58 AM