Senior Carys Kelly is no stranger to change. Once a member of the Girls’ Varsity Golf Team, she decided to step away from the green and take a seat in a boat with the Chicago Rowing Foundation. Trading her golf clubs for an oar, she dedicated herself to many long hours of early morning practices, late-night lifts, and weekend regattas. Despite giving up so much of her time, she says every moment is worth it.
What made you decide to quit golf and start rowing?
“I had put a lot of time and effort into golf, but I was at the point where I wasn’t enjoying it as much as I did when I played just for fun. Golf, being such an individual sport, often felt isolating. While I still love the game, I was looking for a new challenge– something that would push me both physically and mentally while giving me the opportunity to work as part of a team again.”
How did you feel about leaving golf behind?
“It was definitely bittersweet. Golf had been a major part of my life throughout high school, and I worked hard to reach a high level. Leaving it behind felt like a big shift, but when it came down to it, the decision to move on felt natural.”
What attracted you to rowing over other sports?
“The team aspect really drew me in. After coming from golf, where success is based on individual performance, I was eager to be part of a true team environment. Rowing requires synchronization–you can’t be successful unless all eight rowers are in perfect rhythm. I love the idea of working toward a common goal, where everyone’s success is intertwined.”
Did you face any pressure or doubts when you first switched sports?
“Absolutely. Unlike golf, rowing is a very physically demanding sport. I found myself frustrated when I wasn’t progressing as quickly as I wanted. There were definitely moments of self-doubt, especially when I compared myself to taller athletes whose bodies are naturally suited to rowing. But those moments also pushed me to work harder and stick with it.”
How was the transition from individual play in golf to the team-oriented nature of rowing?
“It was a drastic shift, but honestly, I was excited to embrace it. After being on my own in golf, I really craved being part of a team where everyone is connected and relies on each other.”
What challenges did you face when you started rowing?
“One of the biggest challenges was the physical demands of the sport, especially being shorter than many of my teammates. Rowing often comes more naturally for taller athletes, but I didn’t let that hold me back. I also entered the sport as a junior, which made me one of the oldest in the novice group. Many of my teammates were freshmen, and that made me feel like I was starting from behind. On top of that, commuting to practice six days a week was tough, especially the long drives downtown. There were definitely times when I questioned my commitment to such a big change, but the sense of community and support from my teammates kept me going.”
Was there a particular moment or event that signified that joining rowing was the right choice?
“The final race of my first season really solidified it for me. At the Midwest Championships, my boat earned a bronze medal, which felt incredible–especially since I had only started rowing a few months earlier. It was such a proud moment, knowing I contributed to a team effort that resulted in a medal.”
What do you enjoy most about rowing?
“The challenge is what keeps me coming back. Rowing tests both your physical and mental strength—it’s a constant battle to push through the pain. I also love the mornings. Waking up at 5 a.m. for practice isn’t always easy, but the sense of peace on the water as the sun rises over the city is incredible.”
Looking back, do you feel you made the right decision to leave golf for rowing?
“Without a doubt. Rowing has pushed me in ways I never imagined, and I’ve grown so much both as an athlete and a person. I’ve also found an amazing group of girls who have become like family to me. I don’t think I would’ve experienced this kind of growth or found such strong connections in any other sport.”
What advice would you give to someone who is considering leaving their sport to try something new?
“I would encourage them to go for it. It’s easy to stay in your comfort zone, but stepping into something new and challenging can be incredibly rewarding. I had my doubts when I first switched to rowing, but looking back, I’m so glad I did. Changing sports doesn’t mean you’re giving up on your previous dreams. Instead, it’s a chance to grow, learn, and evolve as both an athlete and a person.”
