EMILY FORD

ROWING

What was your sport and how did you get into it?

I started rowing at the age of 11 after seeing my older twin brothers be successful at National level and inspring me to give it a go.

Tell us about the highlights of your sporting career?

One of the proudest moments of my career was qualifying two boats for the Paris Olympic Games, making history as one of the first British women to accomplish this at the same regatta.

Another unforgettable highlight was witnessing my brother win gold at the Paris Olympic Games and making history together as the first brother and sister to medal at the same Olympic Games in the same sport since 1908.

What were some of the challenges you experienced and how did you overcome them?

Rowing didn’t come naturally to me. When I first got in a boat, I was absolutely terrified. I fell in multiple times and even crashed straight into a bush!

The result and experience of the Tokyo Olympic Games were tough to process, and it took me about a year to rediscover my love for the sport.

What have been your highlights while working at the Trust?

I am new to the trust, but am looking forward to working with young people and hoping to make a positive impact and shine a light on their lives.

What do you do now alongside working for the Trust?

I work with 'Great Athletes', visiting primary schools to inspire children to get active. I’ve also had the opportunity to do some public speaking.

What life advice would you give a young person?

Don’t let the past or mistakes deifne you, help it shape your future and make a change.

Competitive
Record

2024

Bronze, Paris Olympic Games

Silver, European Championships

2023

Gold, World Cup III

Silver, European Championships

2022

Silver, European Championships

2020

7th Tokyo Olympic Games