Kelly is now working part time in Oxford while continuing to train 6 days a week - with study about to start on the 1st October. With mornings that start at 5am, and evening shifts at the local pub ending at midnight it's pretty full on. Any donations are gratefully received and go on to her rent and living costs.
Kelly began rowing as a Year 9 student at Tauranga Girls College under Tauranga Rowing Club. From there, she took every stroke with determination and passion, leading her to earn a part funded international sports scholarship to the United States. Over the past four years, Kelly has dedicated herself to strive for excellence both in the classroom and on the water. Through hard work and sacrifice, she’s achieved remarkable academic success, and will be graduating with First Class Honours from Syracuse University in May 2025. Her academic success has lead to an offer to attend the prestigious University of Oxford.
Kelly's childhood has helped her build resilience and determination to reach her goals. Being the eldest of 3, she played a critical role in supporting her mum on her breast cancer journey at just 11 years old.
Despite limited financial resources, Kelly and her family have made countless sacrifices to get to this point, including being unable to afford to come back to NZ to spend time with family while her dad underwent major prostate cancer surgery. Now, with an opportunity to pursue her dreams at Oxford, she needs your support to make it a reality. Your generosity will help cover the costs of her education and rowing endeavors, ensuring she has the chance to reach even greater heights.
Every contribution, no matter how small, will help Kelly continue her journey and make a lasting impact. Thank you for your support!
Firstly, thanks to everyone who has helped us with our fundraising, the donations from so many generous people, and those who have supported me in the wine selling fundraiser, the first wine delivery will be here at the start of May.
Kelly has been offered a place in St Edmund Hall, founded in 1278, the college claims to be "the oldest surviving academic society to house and educate undergraduates in any university" and was the last surviving medieval academic hall at the university.
Its amazing to think that with everyones support behind her, Kelly will be studying here in a few months, we are now waiting anxiously for news of academic scholarships!
