About Margot:

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

Why did you chose that course?
At school I loved studying languages and literature, so Classics seemed like a good way to combine that with exploring new subject areas. In my final year, I’ve leaned into philosophy, historiography, and Classical reception.

When, where and why did you start rowing? And what do you love about the sport?
Rowing was sold to 15-year-old me as ideal for people who wanted to be sporty but were rubbish at every other team sport. I fit that description pretty well. I’ve found there’s something incredibly addictive about the feeling of flow you get on the erg or in the boat when it’s moving well, you can always keep chasing the next improvement. And I’ve met a lot of my favourite people through rowing; at Cambridge it’s been great to be part of my college boat club and now the university club.

What was your first rowing club and coach?
St Paul’s Girls’ School Boat Club—Mike Hennessy and Julia Michalska Plotkowiak

What or who was the earliest sporting inspiration you remember as a child?
I was only eight but I remember the 2012 Olympics like a colourful dream. That summer in London was incredible, the city was so full of energy and optimism and people coming from all over the world to support their home countries. I was in awe of Jessica Ennis in particular.

How has rowing and being part of the Boat Race squad impacted your life?
I’ve learned a lot about time management. It’s inspiring to be around so many strong women at different stages in their athletic careers who are performing at a top level in multiple areas of life. But mostly it’s impacted my bedtime which is now 9pm.

If you weren’t a rower, what sport do you think you’d excel at?
Excel is a strong word but the last few months have made me want to try power lifting and trail running. I also really want to learn how to surf properly.

What is your favourite non-academic book?
Their Eyes Were Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston