Avril Waters Athlete Ambassador
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Avril is a rower who has competed for Team GB. She talks to Sundried about her journey.
Have you always been into sport?
Yes, I started playing hockey when I was 5. My older brothers have provided me a competitive environment to grow up in, from playing in the garden to chasing them on sports fields.
How did you first get into rowing?
I got into rowing because my dad was a professional rower and now a coach. I watched the older girls at my school compete and it inspired me to take part - partly wanting to impress my dad but later on setting my own personal goals.
What has been your favourite race to date and why?
Racing at the Belgium championships in Ghent in 2018 was amazing. After a small road trip with my dad to get there, I raced well and took two wins. The atmosphere was brilliant and we got to eat Belgian waffles afterwards.
What is your proudest achievement?
Competing for Great Britain as a 16 year old was unfathomable to me when I first started. Achieving one of my biggest goals gave me a motivational boost that carried me through the following year. I have to stop and remember how far I've come, it's easy to take it all for granted.
Have you ever had any racing disasters?
I arrived at Henley Royal Regatta, our crew nerves were only made worse when I realised I had forgotten to pack my racing kit!
How do you overcome setbacks?
I write down everything that has gone wrong and evaluate the situation. Often, even in disasters there are some positives. I also like to re-write my goals out to remember why I'm in it for the 'long run'
What advice do you wish you'd been given when you first started out?
Never underestimate the power of a smile. When it's winter and the hard miles seem anything but fun, a smile can lift your spirits and keep you going.
What are your goals?
I would love to row at the World championships in the future (and win!) Beyond that, I would love to finish an ironman triathlon.
Who inspires you?
Lots of people - Chris Froome is particularly inspiring, his passion for the sport from a young age allowed him to gain an advantage.
Why work with Sundried?
Sundried are putting their environmental sustainability high on their priority list whilst still designing comfortable and stylish kit. In this day and age everyone needs to follow suit and start thinking about the future.
