Ella Simanu: 2016 World Rowing Junior Championships

My name is Ella Simanu and I am really excited to have the opportunity to represent my country in a sport that I love. I have been selected as part of the 2016 New Zealand Junior Rowing team competing at the World Junior Rowing Championships in Rotterdam Netherlands in the Womens Coxless Four. I am proud and honoured to have the opportunity to row for New Zealand again and can't wait for what lies ahead.

Rowing has been a major part of my life - from when I started the sport as a keen wee novice in September 2012 to now and as I approach my second year on the international stage.

I love this sport. To me, putting in the hours and the hard yards is not a sacrifice, but simply a part of the challenging and inspiring journey that I love so much about rowing.

My rowing story up to now would not have been possible without the tremendous amount of support I have received. So, thank you to my school Auckland Dio, the Dio Rowing Club, my coaches, friends and family.

This years World Rowing Championships are being run a little differently in that the Junior (U19), U23 and Senior regattas will all take place in Rotterdam from the 21st - 28th August. Having exposure to quality racing and the training leading to it will be such a cool opportunity and I am really looking forward to making the most of it and pushing my rowing to the next level.

The Junior team will come together from the 19th June living and training at Lake Karapiro. While training for World Champs will be the main focus, I will also be attending St Peters Cambridge to keep up with my NCEA Level 3 studies. We leave for Rotterdam on the 12th August and racing for Juniors commences on the 24th August.

I would appreciate any contribution in helping me get to Rotterdam. The costs this year are $7500 for travel and accommodation overseas and $2200 for living expenses while at Karapiro.

I am grateful for any donation – big or small.

Cheers for all the love and support, I will do my absolute best to make ya proud

Ella

xxxxx