Singles Final Start

I have recently returned from Europe where I competed in the World Masters Games in rowing and won the single sculls for my age group.  With a terrible start in the final in which I was down two boat lengths from the rest of the competition, I rowed to the front and had a decisive, 1 ½ boat length, win.

It was the culmination of a very focused and intense training program plus some good coaching from Olympic gold medalist Xeno Muller.  But what I want to share about is the wonderful support I had from Diane during all the hard days of training when I was tired and took naps and unavailable for hours of the day.  Diane always had a supportive comment when I was discouraged, made snacks and power drinks to make sure I was eating enough and generally took good care of me.

Also we were able to organize our European trip around my regatta in Henley on Thames, England, training at Lake Annecy, France and the championship regatta in Torino, Italy.  For almost three weeks during our trip Diane could practice her French making it a win/win for us both.

While it takes focus and dedication to my training regimen, I am convinced that Diane’s non-demanding support of me was a critical element in the formula for my athletic success.

Medals