Sarasota Athlete of the Week: Elliott Mathes

There were 16 entries for Sarasota Crew at the USRowing Youth National Championships. Elliott Mathes was part of its only boat to make the podium. The rising freshman at Pine View School sat in the sixth seat of the U16 Men's Eight, which won bronze with a 6:32.84 finish June 14 at Nathan Benderson Park. His boat narrowly lost out on silver to Los Gatos Rowing Club of California, which crossed the finish line at 6:32.34. Mathes is the Sarasota Athlete of the Week.

How would you reflect on your boat's performance at the USRowing Youth National Championships?

It went pretty well. We executed how we wanted to, and we had a great time overall. For most of us, it was our first time at nationals, so it was just a great experience.

When and why did you start rowing?

I started with the elementary program, I liked it, then went to middle school and now, I'm in the novice program. Next year, I'll do varsity. I've gone through it all and it's been great. I've just loved it the whole way.

What role did your older brother, Will Mathes, play for you in rowing?

He kind of was an influence for me to start in third grade and to start rowing with Sarasota Crew. (Will Mathes is a rising junior with Columbia men's rowing).

How would you describe your passion for this sport?

Just being with friends that I've made along the way. It's great to work hard with them. They also work hard, and it's inspiring.

What quote or piece of advice has always stuck with you?

My coach (Evan Olson), who was an Olympian, used to say that all we needed to do was, "Break one of them. It's eight guys versus one, and you just need to break one. That's all you've got to do."

Who is your favorite professional athlete and why?

At this point, it's honestly my coach. For our states boat, we were not doing very well, and he brought us up. He got us there — to win states.

Do you have any fun summer plans?

(My family) is going to New York this summer. We're going to the Finger Lakes.

If you could go anywhere for a dream vacation, where would you go and why?

Italy. We went to Italy last summer, and it was amazing.

If you had to eat one food for the rest of your life, what would you eat and why?

Steak. I just love it so much. For as long as I can remember, I've always loved red meat.

If you could have any superpower, what would you choose and why?

Unlimited endurance. 

What music do you listen to during practice or before a regatta to get in the zone?

Not any, honestly. Most of my teammates (listen to music), but I don't.

Finish this sentence. Elliott Mathes is...

Hard-working. Through this whole year, I feel like I've had to work very hard to get through school as well as rowing.