About Polly:

What course are you studying and what level?
MPhil in Classics

Why did you chose that course?
Both my parents did Classics and so I grew up surrounded by stories and images from the ancient world, and I just caught the bug, I guess!

When, where and why did you start rowing? And what do you love about the sport?
I learned to row aged about ten in Florence. My parents steered me towards rowing because I showed a distinct lack of talent for any other sport: When I was in Year One, I came home from school one day complaining that I’d had a “runny-away-ey ball” in games. My parents knew then my only hope was rowing! 

It’s cliché but I love the feeling of eight bodies moving as one.

What was your first rowing club and coach?
Alberto and Gioia at the Società Canottieri Firenze.

What or who was the earliest sporting inspiration you remember as a child?
Finding out my aunt had run in the Man Vs Horse was really cool.

How has rowing and being part of the Boat Race squad impacted your life?
The physical toll of the training plan can be really tough, but being a part of such a caring and supportive squad has made (almost!) every minute of it an absolute pleasure. I’ve made so many friends and learned so much from my teammates.

If you weren’t a rower, what sport do you think you’d excel at?
I’d be a professional couch potato.

What is your favourite non-academic book?
I’m indecisive at the best of times, but choosing just one favourite book is impossible! The last book I read though was Beloved by Toni Morrison.