Athlete Spotlight: August
Discovering What’s Possible
For August, rowing started with curiosity.
He had used rowing machines during ERG ED® at school and knew they were connected to the sport, but at the time rowing didn't particularly grab him. It was later, after hearing friends talk about their experiences rowing at Pocock Youth Rowing, that he decided to give it a try for himself.
It helped that rowing offered something August already loved: being outside and on the water.
“I love the water, and this is a great way to be around it.”
At 14, August signed up for Learn to Row. What he discovered was more than a new way to spend time on the water. He found a sport that challenged him and showed him something about himself.
Rowing, August quickly realized, takes dedication. Getting better requires consistency, practice, and a willingness to keep working when something doesn't come easily.
And somewhere in that process, August began to see his own potential differently.
“I think I could be really good at this sport.”
Just as important was the environment in which he got to discover it. August described Learn to Row as fun, welcoming, and supportive. He appreciated coaches who encouraged him to challenge himself without pushing him beyond what felt comfortable.
“I would definitely recommend this,” August said. “All the coaches are great, and they don’t force you to do anything you don’t want to do. It’s a really fun experience.”
August doesn't know yet where rowing will take him. And that's part of what makes his story meaningful.
Because in rowing, winning isn't always about crossing the finish line first. Sometimes the wins that matter happen much earlier: trying something new, sticking with something challenging, and beginning to see what you're capable of.
For August, that win may have started with one simple realization:
“I think I could be really good at this sport.”
