Amazing Women Masters Rower: Judy Kaplow

What rowing moment you are most proud of?
Rowing a 2X with a 92 year-old man and sprinting to the finish, winning by open water.

How has rowing shaped you?
Made me extremely considerate of teammates.

What’s the biggest challenge you’ve had to overcome to row your best?
Compression fractures in back 5/18, took off a year, back on the water for 6 weeks now.

What are the biggest life lessons you’ve learned from rowing?
Camaraderie with teammates. There is no “I” in rowing, only “We”.

What inspires you to keep rowing?
Sense of well-being, clear head, ability to appreciate nature, rowing in new venues.

What club or team are you currently rowing with?
Vesper Boat Club.

What do you like most about rowing a single or with others?
Love the companionship and networking of rowing in a team boat. In my single, I love being able to go at my own pace and push myself to limits not seen before.

What are you currently working towards as a rower? as a competitor?
Looking forward to Masters Nationals in Grand Rapids this Summer, and FISA Masters Worlds in Budapest this Fall.

What advice do you have for other women rowers?
Keep rowing. Rowing is not defined by age. Only your desire will hold you back. I was delighted to turn 80 this past March since it elevated me to a different handicap category. Hopefully, I’ll be like a fine wine and get better as I age.

If you’d like to share your story in our “Amazing Women Masters Rowers” series, please email contact@whywerow.com.

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