St Mary’s School, Waverley learner reflects on her rowing journey

St Mary’s School, Waverley learner Danelia Price-Hughes aims to be part of the RMB National Squad and compete in the Olympics one day.

Danelia began her rowing journey five years ago after being drawn to the adventure of the sport.

Her recent achievements include sixth position with her partner in the junior women’s double scull event at the U19 Junior World Rowing Championships held in France last year.

“While rowing for St Mary’s Rowing Club, I have been in the winning crew of the South African Schools Boat Race for three consecutive years. I placed first in the U19 1st single scull double scull, and coxed quad events at the Southern African Schools Championships and Gauteng Championships this past season.”

The 17-year-old said academics and sports were top priorities in her life. Therefore, she has to constantly maintain good time management. “By ensuring I do not let myself fall behind with school and utilising the small moments I find during the day to work, such as on the bus, I allow myself to stay on top of things. This helps ensure that neither my academic nor athletic performance will be negatively affected.”

Winning the first quad event at the Southern African Schools Championships was one of her favourite rowing memories.

She added it was a significant comeback after her underperformances at the previous two regattas. Still, as a crew, they knew what they needed to do and put their all into executing the plan as best as possible.

Danelia’s advice to aspiring rowers is, “When things get hard, hold onto your ‘why?’. It is the reason why you put yourself through so much hurt, why you wake up in the morning before the sun even rises to train. Reminding yourself why you work hard day in and day out keeps you motivated and don’t let anyone tell you your dreams are too big.”

Related article: St Teresa’s Senior Primary School swimmers flaunt their skills

St Marys School, Waverly learner aims to represent SA in the Olympics