Lee-Ann PERSSE Interview

Rising Star – January 2012

A fast five minutes with Lee-Ann Persse

South Africa’s Lee-Ann Persse, 23, began to compete internationally a little less than two years ago. From placing 13^th and 11^th in the women’s pair at World Rowing Cups in 2010, she improved impressively within a year’s time, finishing 6^th at the 2011 World Rowing Championships with partner Naydene Smith, thereby qualifying the women’s pair for the 2012 London Olympic Games.

My sporting hero is…Roger Federer. I’ve actually always wanted to be a tennis player, and he has always inspired me.

I’m motivated by…knowing that I can always improve in both technique and strength, but am especially motivated by the goals I set for myself.

A typical day involves…eating, rowing, eating, gym, eating, sleeping, erging…

My favourite training session…would have to be any session involving sprint pieces. I also enjoy rowing in the early morning or evening when the water is flat and all you can hear is the sound of the bubbles under the boat.

On the erg I listen to…the sound of the ergo fan, haven’t listened to music on the erg for years.

My goal in rowing this year is…to perform at my very best in London.

My toughest race was…the semifinal at the 2011 Samsung World Rowing Cup in Lucerne.

I get annoyed when…I fail to reach my goals

My favourite film is… probably Finding Nemo – I love the animations!

I study…Sports Science

I’m most relaxed when…I’m at home with my family in Cape Town!

My favourite book is…Shantaram, a very long read, but also very inspiring story.

My favourite TV programme is…Minute to win it

I’m afraid of…any creepy crawly bugs or animals, especially frogs.

In 10 years’time I will…I haven’t quite looked that far into the future yet, but hopefully will still be in a rowing boat!