February 2019 : Ionela-Livia Cozmiuc (ROU)

Athlete of the Month – February 2019

Romanian Ionela-Livia Cozmiuc is one half of the current team to beat in the lightweight women’s double sculls.  In 2018, with crewmate, Gianina-Elena Beleaga, she took World Championship gold for the second year running and has spent the winter in Italy prepping to win more.

World Rowing: Congratulations on your second World Championships gold.   Did this year feel different, going into the race as the reigning World Champions?
Ionela-Livia Cozmiuc: Thank You. Yes, this year was different because I felt more confident than two years ago.

WR: What was the reaction in Romania to your second gold?
ILC: The reaction was a very good one. All our friends and family were very happy for us. We received many congratulations from many people, especially online.

WR: How have you spent the winter time?
ILC: My winter was spent in training camp. I was at home for two weeks for the winter holidays. It’s still winter in Romania but I’m in Italy for training.

WR: Why did you choose rowing and why do you keep rowing?
ILC: I don’t think I chose rowing, rowing chose me! I keep rowing because I love this sport!

WR: Can you tell us a bit about your partnership with Gianina-Elena Beleaga – how do you work as a team on the water and off the water?
ILC: Me and Gianina have a special bound. We complete each other. Together, we work very well and we make a strong team.

WR: Where do you train and what it is like?
ILC: Now I train in Piediluco, Italy. It’s an amazing lake and the view is unbelievable.

WR: What are your goals for 2019?
ILC: I like to win, so my goals in 2019 are to win as many races is possible.

WR: Are you feeling more pressure to win now that you have won two World Championships?
ILC: Yes, I feel more pressure than last year but I can manage this.

WR: How do you prepare on race day?
ILC: I prepare for race day all during the year. So, on the day of the race I feel ready.

WR: What is your long-term goal?
ILC: My long-term goal is to win a gold medal at the Olympic Games. My plan is to work hard and believe in me and in our team.

WR: What do you do when you are not rowing?
ILC: When I’m not rowing I like to travel everywhere in the world.

WR: What is your favourite thing to do for fun or to relax?
ILC: I like dancing, playing cards and spending time with my friends.