<p>#003: Chierika “Coco” Ukogu is a recently graduated orthopedic surgeon, Stanford University rowing alumna, and American-born Nigerian professional rower. To top that all off, she competed as Nigeria’s first ever rower in the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro… Pause. Re-read the previous two sentences again, more slowly, and for dramatic effect. Yes, now please. Did I mention that we spoke to her during match week? Moving on, she talks about taking part in youth sports in Philadelphia (where she grew up) and the one very specific factor that led her to choose rowing over other sports. Additionally, we quickly discuss what we should be doing during this time of quarantine and social distancing as COVID-19 takes a strong presence in New York City, where she is currently based. To hear more on her journey and her continuing accomplishments, follow her story on Twitter and Instagram @cukogu</p>

BONUS: Amplify your voice!

Denise Aquino and Patricia Destine are two women of color who are dedicated to promoting diversity within the sport of rowing. Both are former rowers turned coxswains turned coaches in the sport. Together they have almost 25 years of experience on the erg, at regattas, in the launch, or at the boathouse. No stranger to navigation or microphones, these former coxswains amplify what it’s like to navigate the topic of race within the white-dominated sport of rowing. Like most bodies of water, the tide is changing; there are more American rowers of color than there has ever been. You’ll hear from people who represented the U.S. in international races to folks who just started to row this year. Tune in to listen to a mix of interviews, special co-hosts, and tag-team shows from hosts, Denise and Patricia. Whether a rower or not, you’re not going to want to miss. Hit subscribe and enjoy.