Sophie’s rowing story

An interview with Sophie Bentley, Tees RC Junior Squad

Interview by Martha Anderson, Junior Vice-Captain


What made you get into rowing?

I saw rowing on TV when I was younger and kept asking my mum if I could give it a go. I had to wait a few years until I was old enough to try! I also heard from other people in my swim club that rowing was a good sport to do alongside swimming, which I have been doing since I was little. Safe to say I love water! 😂

What is your favourite boat to row in?

My favourite is probably a single because you have to stay determined and focused  in order to perform well, and I like the self motivation, however the team spirit in a crew boat is really good fun.

How did you feel representing Team North at JIRR?

I was very privileged to go to this regatta and represent the North. My excitement to compete was building up for weeks and I wanted to do my region proud. It was nice to row together, as a region for once, instead of competing against each other. It was great to see the North come third in the rankings overall!

What were your first thoughts when you found out you got into the A final?

When I first found out I got into the A final I was overwhelmed with excitement. I was also extremely proud of myself because it meant all my hardwork and dedication had paid off. It also meant I was in the running for a medal (sadly not to be!)

What was your race strategy ?

Go out hard with lots of power, build the pace up and maintain! Also to never lose hope as you haven’t lost until the finish line.

Where do you want your rowing journey to take you?

I am uncertain where my rowing is going to take me in the future but I like to think as long as I put the work in I will go as far as I am meant to, whether that is another JIRR and reaching a few more A finals🤞or just a sport I love and can continue to work on.

Tees RC Junior Squad

The Tees Rowing Club junior programme prides itself on being an inclusive club which is accessible to participants of all standards. We are committed to placing the long term development of the rower at the centre of our programmes, and strive to provide a safe space where our juniors can have fun and get to 18 fit, healthy with a lifelong love of the sport and a better understanding of themselves.