first 2K!

Question
Hi,
I am a 16 year old girl about five feet 11 and 160 pounds.  Last year was my novice year rowing but after winter training I got to move up to varsity! Tomorrow is my first 2K and I was wondering what I should eat for breakfast tomorrow and what a good time would be for me.  Also what would be a good time if I wanted to try for a scholarship in college.  Thanks.

Answer
Hi Keara: I guess you will have rowed your 2K by now.  I'd say if you row an 8:10, that would be average.  Anything under 8:00 is really good and 7:45 and below is spectacular.

Getting a rowing scholarship involves many factors and not just erg times.  You need to demonstrate success in on-water racing, good grades, good SATs, and yes an erg time well below 8:00.

Good Luck/AP