Expert: Al Pepper Date: 4/22/2008 Subject: National Team and height
Question Hello. I'm a 6'0 190 pound collegiate rower at a small DIII university. Last
season I pulled a 6:18 2k time, but I believe that I'm nowhere near my
athletic potential and I feel like if I really stepped up my training and
committed myself I could drop that time below the 6:10's by next season. I
have told myself that if I can accomplish that that I will give serious thought
to training for the national team, but my question is will my height
significantly limit my ability to accomplish that goal? I've looked on national
team rosters and have really never seen a guy under 6'2 in a heavyweight
boat (and unless I want to stop eating altogether I don't foresee losing 30
pounds to be a lightweight). I also wonder if I will have any trouble getting in
because of my small club background. Is this a dream I should really chase
or will I just be wasting my time?
Answer Hi Stephen: Interesting question. As a reference to you, I attached the 2008 CRASH-B results.
As you can see, you are better than average against very stiff competition. That said, I think you need to get down to 6:10, maybe even 6:06 to be considered a strong candidate for National Camp.
You are correct in your honest assessment that you are a bit undersized and may not have the on-water resume of a typical National Camp candidate. However, none of these things are insurmmountable to attaining your noble dream.
My recommendation is to dedicate this summer to finding a very competitive club rowing program. I'm talking like the Vesper Boat Club of Philadaphia, New York Athletic Club, or the Saint Catherines Boat Club of Canada. These clubs will give you intense competition and National Championship experienice. You will also meet elite-level coaches who can give you a recommendation for the National Camp. Shoot for 2009 as your year for the National Camp.
