You’ve plainly stated your goal is the 2012 Olympics. What are your chances?
We have to do well during the World Championships in September to earn a boat in the Olympics. Then we have to beat out the other two American C-2 teams in the Olympic Team Selection race. We’re ranked 25th in the world, the highest ranking of any American C-2 team, but we didn’t do our best in the World Cup races, so we’ve got to put in a good showing at the World Championships and US Team Selection Race.
How focused are you on the Olympics at this point?
Very focused. I’m not going to school or working. I’m just training for my shot at the Olympics. Basically I get up, run, eat, paddle, eat, paddle, eat, and sleep. Every other day I lift weights. It can get old, but I’ll just go creek boating if I need to mix it up.
The Green River Narrows Race is around the corner. You came in second last year. Is this your year to take the Green title?
I hope so. I’m pretty sure I’m going to win it at some point. I think this year could be it. If you’re going to put money on it, this would be the year.
Why’s that?
I’ve been training 24-7 for the Olympics full time. I took a year off of school for this. I’m fit. But then, Pat Keller and Andrew Holcombe are also both in good health and racing this year. It could also be John Grace’s year. Or Chris Gragtmans. There are so many good boaters at the Green Race. It’s amazing.
