Holly Nixon in international rowing action for Team GB. Picture: Intersport Images
Enniskillen’s Holly Nixon has been named in the GB Rowing Team for next month’s European Championships – the first major international competition of the Rio 2016 Olympic season.
Nixon will be making her European Championships debut for GB at the regatta in Brandenburg from May 6-8. She has been selected in the women’s quadruple scull after finishing an impressive runner-up in the women’s single at the GB trials.
The quad of Nixon, Jess Leyden, Tina Stiller and Ro Bradbury will also race at the Varese World Cup in Italy from April 15-17 as they build towards next month’s final Olympic qualifying regatta in Lucerne, Switzerland.
Nixon says the news has gone down a treat in her native county.
“The support from home has been amazing,” said the rower. “I have a massive family which I adore and are always behind me every step of the way especially my parents Keith and Lily who provide me with unlimited support through the highs and lows. My old club, Portora Boat Club, are also following my progress and play a massive part as that is where I learned to row. My close friends and family friends are also great.”
Nixon is the first to admit that the road to senior international hasn’t necessarily been a straightforward one.
“I have had an on going medical issue, but the support of GB rowing medical team, and funding by the Lottery which I am forever grateful for, have helped me address this issue and got me on the podium at under 23s which was nice after such a rocky season.
“This season I now know how to manage myself and things seem to be going a lot better, touch wood. It’s been a long winter we have had three gruelling camps. Two were based in Aviz in Portugal, which is a beautiful venue so that helped.”
“I like to think with the good winter training that I am in pretty good shape. Thankfully at the moment there are no major injuries or issues to contend with.”
The Olympics later this summer are the ultimate goal, and Nixon admits that she has had a Brazilian daydreams.
“Yes I have allowed myself a few thoughts about Rio, but I really feel it’s important to keep my head in the right place as the journey ahead and qualification is going to be tough and unforgiving if your not ready in that final.
It’s relentless, everyone wants those last two spots and this is the last chance.”
To read more.. Subscribe to current edition
Receive quality journalism wherever you are, on any device. Keep up to date from the comfort of your own home with a digital subscription.
Any time | Any place | Anywhere