"Lightweight women's crew has not only complemented,
but has extended my education as a student-athlete. Rowing
at Princeton has allowed me to experience teamwork,
competition, and ambition that differs from academic learning.
Crew provides an opportunity to apply a strong work
ethic, persistence, and dedication to life beyond the classroom.
But most importantly, rowing provides two hours each
afternoon away from academics to simply enjoy the competitive spirit
of a team. This rest from my studies allows me to approach
my responsibilities as a student with a refreshed perspective.
Rowing has contributed to my role as a competitor as well
as my role as a learner and has rewarded me with a
unique experience at Princeton."
"Guts. You can talk all you want about what it takes to row at Princeton — break the stroke down into multiple drills, count
the banners and trophies of each squad, trace back every beloved tradition, you can
dissect it down to a perfect science. But more
than anything, being a member of Princeton crew takes guts. Guts to come to practice each
day, demanding just a bit more than yesterday. Guts to perform not only on Lake
Carnegie but also in orgo lab or your politics
seminar. Guts to accept that being a team means everything you do affects everyone else
and that your boat is only as fast as "its
weakest link". And it takes guts to cross that line,
the entire race a complete blur, having no regrets only pride.
As a Princeton rower, you leave with more than a diploma. You face the
world with relentless drive, unwavering dedication and life-long lasting friendships. And
of course, invincible, rock-solid guts."
- Kristin Bartges '00, co-captain, Women's Open Crew
"During these past four years as a member of the heavyweight team, I have learned more on Lake Carnegie than in any classroom or building. The nature
of the sport requires total dedication, discipline and determination. The
Princeton Crew experience is unique in that because we have the best coaches, facilities
and rowers in the country, each member of the team can succeed by simply
working as hard as possible. The exciting and competitive environment of
Princeton rowing drives each rower beyond their personal goals. In the spring, the
intense, personal competitiveness of each rower yields national championship
caliber crews. This process, which happens each season, has made my entire
Princeton experience more rewarding than I ever imagined it would be."
