March 2021: Kara Kohler

Rower of the Month – March 2021

United States sculler Kara Kohler has become the first American rower to qualify for the Tokyo Olympics, winning the single sculls at the first US trials.  The 30-year-old won bronze at the last World Rowing Championships – in 2019.  She tells us that although 2020 was a challenging year, it had at least one nice upside.

World Rowing: Congratulations on qualifying for the Olympics. What does it feel like to achieve that with all the uncertainty around the Games this year?
Kara Kohler: I believe winning Olympic trials felt just as incredible as it would have in a normal year. Do I wish there were fewer unknowns heading into Tokyo? Yes, but whatever happens I am overjoyed and relieved to be a 2020 Olympian for Team USA.

WR: How has the past year been for you – and how has it been different to your expectations?
KK: Motivation was a big struggle during the spring and summer of last year. I knew a year postponement would be challenging, but I also saw it as an opportunity for better preparation. I was overcoming illness during last year’s Olympic trials which set me back quite a bit, and I am grateful to have been healthy this time around.

WR: Were there any silver linings?
KK: I was able to adopt my dog Luna. The best dog that I ever could have dreamed of having!

WR: Why did you take up rowing?  And why do you stick with it?
KK: My senior year of high school someone suggested to me that I might be good at it. I wanted to get recruited to college for swimming so did not take the suggestion seriously at first. Eventually, I did some research on the sport and learned about rowing’s college walk-on history. I had always wanted to compete at the Olympics and saw rowing as a path to fulfill my dream, so that was the main reason I stuck with it initially. Beyond Olympic dreams, I keep coming back because I feel like I am becoming a better racer as time goes on and also I love being a part of a team.

WR: How did your past as a swimmer help you?
KK: It helped me start my rowing career out in a very good place fitness wise and prepared me incredibly well to handle the rigours of full-time training.

WR: What is your most memorable rowing moment?
KK: Among many other memorable moments I have to say winning Olympic trials last month. It has been a long road to make another Olympic team which made that win feel extra sweet.

WR: What do you do when you’re not rowing?
KK: I enjoy spending time outdoors exploring especially if it includes Luna.

WR: What do you do for fun or to relax?
KK: I love teaching Luna new tricks. I also love camping.

WR: Which sports person do you most admire?
KK: Growing up I always admired [swimmer] Natalie Coughlin. Throughout my rowing career I have been fortunate to train and race with some of the top rowers in the world who I have looked up to and learned so much from. Also, my coach Laurel Korholz.