The Rowers of Marymount 

Three members of our Marymount community participate in rowing! The program is called “MAC,” in reference to their practice location, the “Marina Aquatics Center.” This program is unique in that it is accessible to rowers from many different schools across Los Angeles, it’s not a Marymount only sport. These rowers dedicate 5 days of training every week, and participate in monthly regattas (rowing competitions). 

I interviewed these 3 lovely rowers to get a little insight into their daily life as a rower!

#1: Margaux Curtes:

Q: What does a Monday practice look like for you? 

A: I usually get to the Marina Aquatics Center, (MAC) by 4:10. We start warming up with a mile run at 4:15. After running, we do some dynamic stretching as a group and we get on the water at around 4:50. Then, we row back to the dock at around 6:15, and put the boat back on the rack before leaving!

Q: What pre-regatta rituals do you participate in? 

A: Before regattas, I always drink a lot of water and I make sure that I have gotten at least 8 hours of sleep the night before. I also have a filling breakfast, to fuel me for my competition.

Q: What regatta this year has been your favorite?

A: Our Fulsom regatta has been my favorite this year because I loved spending time with my teammates on the bus. We had an 8-hour ride so that provided plenty of time to further bond with my teammates. I also loved going out for team dinners, and Lake Natoma is beautiful!

#2 Joselyn Demorest:

Q: How long have you been rowing for?

A: I started rowing in 6th grade, but only over the summers. Then, I started rowing after the fall season at the MAC!

Q: How do you keep yourself motivated during practice? 

A: I stay motivated by knowing that I am with my team and that we are all one team. When we practice, it really is a team effort, and we are only as good as our weakest link! Also, knowing that the way I practice is the way I will perform, challenges me to work my hardest. When it is time for our regatta, we pull hard! 

Q: What made you want to start rowing?

A: My Dad rowed at the University of Pennsylvania, and my aunts also rowed, so it runs in my blood! Ever since I started in 6th grade, I knew I wanted to compete in it!

#3: Elizabeth Burger: 

Q: How do you manage your rowing schedule with schoolwork? 

A: I get a lot of my work done during free periods and during lunch. I tend to also meet with teachers during my free period. Additionally, I get a lot of work done on the weekends, usually Sundays.  

Q: What’s something important you’ve learned from rowing? 

A: I have learned to persevere because rowing is a hard sport, and if you don’t give up, you can prove to yourself that you’re capable of participating in it. 

Q: What is your favorite part of practice? 

A: – My favorite part of practice is walking out with my friends. Also, after practice everyone is in a good mood, because of the endorphins. 

Overall, I had three wonderful conversations with our Marymount rowers! Good luck for the rest of the season, and for your future competitions!