Happy Women's History Month from JL Racing! This blog features three female rowers and discusses their rowing experiences & what Women's History Month means to them. Happy Rowing!
We have interviewed Sam Kelsey, Haley Uliasz, and Mary Bain; 3 female rowers who have made a big impact in the rowing world! Read below to learn about their rowing journeys.
Mary Bain:
Name, current club, years rowing
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Mary BainIndianapolis rowing center6 years
Can you share a bit about your journey into rowing and what inspired you to pursue this sport?
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I began rowing over Covid. I was on a walk through our city’s park and I stumbled upon the boathouse. I decided to try it since I had nothing better to do with my quarantine time, so I signed up for their summer learn to row. I instantly fell in love with being on the water and the encouraging community that it introduced me to.
How has rowing impacted your life, both on and off the water?
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Rowing has given me so many amazing opportunities. It has helped me grow as a person and athlete. Rowing gave me a tight knit community that shaped me into the person I am today. It taught me how to stick up for myself and be confident in who I am. Through rowing, I have made so many friends from so many different schools and states. Rowing has made me such a strong and resilient athlete. Before rowing I believed that I wasn’t capable of any athletic activities, but I have been able to unlock a whole new set of athletic abilities.
Who are some female athletes that have inspired you throughout your career?
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Coral KasdenChristine Cavallo
In your opinion, what does Women's History Month mean to you as an athlete?
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In the past women’s sports have been widely underrepresented. I believe that women’s history month is a great opportunity to show how large of a role women play in sports and how much success we have.
How do you think sports like rowing empower women and contribute to gender equality?
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I believe that rowing is a very inclusive and empowering sport. Every woman that I have met in rowing is so awe inspiring. Rowing is an engaging sport that can show the world how strong women can be and how much success they can bring to the sports industry.
Can you share a memorable moment or achievement in your rowing career that you're particularly proud of?
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I am proud of being able to compete at the world beach sprint finals. I put in so much training and focus in order to be able to race competitively.
As a part of Team JL and the rowing community, how do you hope to inspire other women?
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I hope to inspire women and help them believe that they are capable of anything that they put their mind to. As a short woman, I want to make sure others know that no matter what people tell them, they can reach any goal that they work hard for.
Is there anything else you would like to share in honor of Women’s History Month?
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Don’t let anyone hold you back from reaching your goals! No matter what you are told or what barriers you face.
Thank you for being such an inspiration, Mary!
