University of North Carolina Athletics
Rowing Along: Meredith Krull
October 17, 2001 | Women's Rowing
Oct. 17, 2001
Meredith Krull is a senior from Raleigh and a member of the UNC rowing team. Throughout the year, she will provide TarHeelBlue.com readers with an inside look at her team and the experience of being a varsity athlete at North Carolina.
This past week was both physically and mentally challenging as Joel made the final decision as to who would represent UNC in the championship four + at the Head of the Charles regatta.
On Monday, we did what I consider to be the hardest practice of the year, two 6k tests on the erg. This year seemed to be more challenging than any other year because in addition to being physically exhausting, this test was emotionally tougher than before. Everyone knew that the results of both tests would be a major part of who would make the boat. It was gratifying, however, when Joel told us at the end that he was pleased with the effort everyone contributed.
Thursday marked the last day of seat racing. After a long warm-up, the three boats lined up evenly across the lake for nine 1,000-meter pieces. For me and many others, this day was the most difficult because we knew that shortly after practice we would know who was racing. Additionally, seat racing is challenging because you never really know if you have won your race. As I understand it, the coaches must take a lot into consideration when determining who is moving the boat most effectively. As a rower, the only thing you have to think about is pulling as hard as you can every stroke of the practice. In a way, this makes it easier.
At the end of practice, Joel announced who would be competing on Sunday. He explained how difficult it is to choose only four rowers. As it turns out, Layne Carey will stroke the boat, I will sit in three, Rebecca Bennett will be in the two seat, and Grace Wallenborn will be in the bow. Senior Kelley Gates will be our coxswain. Jeanette Crets will travel to Boston as an alternate.
What each rower can take from this selection is that as a team we are going to be very internally competitive this year. I believe that this competition will do nothing than make each of us, and the entire program, faster. When selection for a big race is this close, it emphasizes that each of us cannot let up in our hard work. It's an important lesson to learn.
You can expect updates from me on what is going on in Boston at the Head of the Charles. Please keep logging on to find out how the Carolina championship four + is doing.
Wish us luck!
Yours in Carolina Blue,
Mer
