Elodie Ravera is a member of the French rowing team and holds a license with the Nice Rowing Club. At just 19 years old, she will be participating in her first Olympic Games this August in Rio.
In an interview she granted us, Elodie Ravera reflected on her career path and her season, which was focused on preparing for the Games and highlighted by a strong performance in the World Cup.
Nice Premium: Can you tell us about your journey, from your beginnings to joining the French team?
Elodie Ravera: I started rowing at the age of 13 at the Nice Rowing Club.
My father, a former high-level rower, introduced me to this sport and registered me. I also enjoyed the sport, particularly the atmosphere within the club. Then, I started competing in races and gradually achieved good performances. I thought, why not aim for a high level fairly quickly? So, through intense training sessions marked by excellent results, I was able to join the French team.
Nice Premium: What are the qualities and characteristics needed to succeed in your sport?
Elodie Ravera: Even though you need to be at least 1.70m tall and weigh 60kg to compete with the best, size isn’t the only important factor. You also need to be very motivated and have a lot of determination. And, of course, regular training leads to progress and continuous achievements.
Nice Premium: How do you view your season?
Elodie Ravera: With my partner (her discipline is the double scull), we participated in 3 international outings. We took part in 3 World Cup events. The last one was held on the weekend of June 18 and 19 in Poznan, Poland. We finished 3rd. It’s the first time I’ve been on an elite podium at the international level. It’s the highlight of my young career so far. It’s a good sign for the Games. I hope to perform even better in Rio.
Nice Premium: How will you prepare for the Olympics, a competition unlike any other?
Elodie Ravera: We will have a preparation camp lasting one month starting on June 28. We will then travel to Brazil on July 27. During the camp, my partner and I will be together without interruption, undergoing continuous training. We will have two sessions a day. To be mentally ready, there’s no special preparation. It’s the training that builds mental strength.
Nice Premium: How do you feel about the upcoming Rio Games?
Elodie Ravera: I can’t wait to be there. These are my first games. I’ve trained all year for this. It’s going to be grand. I want to see what the Olympics are like. With my partner, we’re ready to give it our all. We have one more month to perfect ourselves and give everything in Rio.
