23 May 2013
Julia EDWARD Interview
Rising Star – May 2013
A fast five minutes with Julia Edward
When Julia Edward was asked at primary school what she wanted to be when she grew up, her answer, “An Olympian”.
“I remember watching the Olympics on TV and being so amazed with the athletes competing. I was very inspired and I wanted to be like them one day.”
At the age of 21, and in just her third year on the New Zealand national team, Julia became an Olympian.
Rowing is… a sport with so much satisfaction. When I began to see progress in my technique and times I became addicted and wanted to push myself even further.
As a lightweight… I never felt disadvantaged at the start line racing heavyweights (as a junior), it was just the norm. It wasn’t until after high school that I was introduced to lightweight rowing.
In 2012… my doubles partner (Louise Ayling) and I had a great season. In our first international race together in the World Cup II heat we beat the World Best Time.
Memorable Olympic moment… coming into the last 300m of the race and being brought home by the roaring crowd. It’s something I’ll never forget. It gives me chills even now thinking about it!
I’m motivated by… the whole New Zealand rowing team. It’s such a great environment to be in. We are constantly pushing each other and we all get along very well. Our team has great support from the New Zealand Rowing staff. We couldn’t do what we do without them.
I’m currently studying… a Bachelor of Business Studies
In my spare time… I study. I chill out. I catch up with friends and family.
I’m most relaxed… when I’m at home in Rotorua with my family, sitting on the deck after dinner singing along to Dad playing the guitar.