From humble beginnings on the waters of Bewl Water to the Olympic podium in Paris 2024, rower Emily Craig’s journey has been nothing short of inspiring. Now a three-time World Champion, two-time European Champion, and the newly crowned Olympic Champion, Emily’s path to greatness began at the South East’s largest reservoir, Bewl Water, at the age of 12.
In an unforgettable final at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, Emily Craig, alongside teammate Imogen Grant, secured gold in the Lightweight Women’s Double Sculls, becoming the last-ever Olympic Champions in the event. Bewl Water is immensely proud to have played a part in Emily’s development as an athlete, with her training at the Bewl Bridge Rowing Club providing the tranquil yet challenging environment that nurtured her talent from the start.
In a recent interview with the Bewl Water team, Emily shared her thoughts on her journey, her connection to Bewl Water, and what aspiring rowers can learn from her experiences.
What made you choose rowing, or did it choose you?
“I got into rowing through the British Indoor Rowing Championships. My parents competed every year, and when I was 12, they encouraged me to take part. I came away with a silver medal, so I thought I should give rowing in a real boat a try. That summer, I headed to Bewl, tried out rowing, and immediately fell in love. Just three sessions in, I declared my ambition to compete in the Olympics!”
What makes Bewl a good place for training?
“Bewl is a fantastic place to train. The reservoir doesn’t suffer from flooding or fast streams like a river, so you can train all year round. There’s a perfect 5km stretch from one arm of the reservoir to the other, and whenever it’s windy, there’s always a sheltered spot for technical drills. Plus, there’s nothing more beautiful than rowing at Bewl on a calm summer evening.”
What are your top 3 tips for getting started in rowing?
1. Contact your local club and sign up for a summer ‘Learn to Row’ course.
2. Find a crew, partner, or squad with similar ambitions, whether you’re rowing for fun or competition – it’s always better to achieve your goals with others.
3. Make the rowing machine your friend! It’s a great way to improve both technique and fitness when you can’t get on the water.
What was your favourite part of being at the Olympics this year?
“Aside from winning, my favourite part was watching other sports in Paris and supporting the other Team GB athletes. It was amazing to celebrate their success too.”
Bewl Water – A home for champions
Emily’s Olympic success is a testament to the quality of Bewl Water’s facilities and its role in shaping future champions. The picturesque reservoir, known for its calm and scenic rowing conditions, continues to be a hub for aspiring rowers of all ages. As Emily Craig’s story shows, great things can begin on the serene waters of Bewl.
Kevin Parker, Bewl Water’ Operations Manager comments on Emily’s humble beginnings at Bewl.
“We are incredibly proud of Emily’s achievements and her long-standing connection to Bewl Water. From a young rower on our reservoir to an Olympic champion – it is truly inspiring. Emily’s success is a testament to her hard work and dedication, and we’re honoured to know that Bewl Water played a part in her journey. She embodies the spirit of perseverance that we hope to instil in all those who come to train and enjoy the water at Bewl.”
For further details or to learn more about rowing and other watersports opportunities at Bewl Water, visit www.bewlwater.co.uk or contact the team at Bewl Bridge Rowing Club for more information on their training programs. To keep up with Emily’s news you can follow her on Instagram @emilyelizabethcraig or visit her website www.emilycraigfitness.com
