Indiana University Athletics
Spring Break Stories - Elisabeth Benoit
3/15/2006 12:00:00 AM | Women's Rowing
March 15, 2006
CLEMSON, S.C. - The Indiana rowing team is currently training in Clemson, S.C, for its spring break training trip from March 12-18. The Hoosiers will write in to IUHOOSIERS.com from time to time to let everyone know how the team is doing. Senior Elisabeth Benoit is the third to report in from Clemson.
Every sport has its variables. A large opposing crowd, different turf and unfamiliar territory have the potential to make or break a game or a practice. As athletes, it is our job to focus and do the best job we can without making excuses. Rowing is full of variables; the wind, water and weather can drastically change within a single practice, making it imperative that we, as rowers, are prepared for everything.
As a crew, we can either take advantage of any less-than-ideal situations or become frustrated. We have decided that we are ready to take on anything. The wind gusts on Lake Hartwell began this morning and continued throughout the day, causing whitecaps and less-than-perfect rowing conditions. Although mornings like these are not anyone's favorite, they offer a great opportunity to work through rougher waters that could be similar to race day.
The morning row was primarily dedicated to our starting sequence. Working on our start brings a new level of excitement to practice because it means our first race is rapidly approaching. This afternoon, the entire Indiana women's rowing fleet did short pieces together, which was a great chance for everyone to work on their starts and to have some competitive fun.
Variables are only obstacles to overcome to make us stronger. Whether it be wind, choppy water, or bad weather, we manage to work through it and make ourselves better each day.
