2ks and college

Question
Hey!
I'm a 130 pound sophomore girl in high school and it's my first year rowing. For my very first 2k, I pulled an 8:10.9. If I continue on training really hard, where do you see me 2k-wise around senior year? If i wanted to be recruited to row at a competitive university, when would I have to have my erg scores submitted by and what is a good erg score to have?

Answer
Hi Aubrey: Your 8:10 is a very good time.  Your time puts you in the top 20% for lightweight girls your age.  I'd say you are on track for breaking 8 minutes by your senior year, which would make you an asset for most college rowing programs out there.  Targeting a goal of 8:00 would put you in the Top-10% and make you a definite candidate for any college rowing program.  If you move up to heavyweight (over 135), you probably have to drop 10 more seconds to maintain those percentiles.

You probably want to begin applying to colleges and contacting prospective crew coaches by the end of your junior year.  While erg scores are important, your on-water record will be a major factor in whether you get interest from major programs and/or get athletic scholarship consideration.  You also have to ensure you do well with your academics and maintain good grades.

Good Luck/AP