We’re continue to put a spotlight on the team behind HOTSHOT! If you're rowing the Charles this spring, you might run into this HOTSHOT team member. Meet our fearless leader, Elizabeth:
What position do you play on the HOTSHOT team?
I am the Vice President over the HOTSHOT team with oversight for all the functions that help bring HOTSHOT to market and to our consumers. The actual scope of my job is broad and includes everything from standing in the sun handing out HOTSHOT at events to presenting to our Board of Directors. I love the variety – there’s never a dull moment!
What’s your workout/sport of choice?
I do a little bit of everything – spinning, yoga, barre, running – but I identify as a rower. I started rowing in college when I studied abroad in England and re-discovered it back in 2010 through a masters’ rowing program. I’ve been a proud member of the Gentle Giant Rowing Club out of Somerville, MA since 2013.
Despite the early wake-up call, I love nothing more than being out on the water before dawn with a group of my friends. Rowing is about my skill and strength as an individual, but it is so much more about how I interact with the boat and my teammates. Every little shift of my body, legs, feet or hands can impact the set of the boat and even the tiniest out-of-sync motion can impact our rhythm and speed. There are so many nuances to control and keep in mind that rowing forces me to be fully present for the 90 minutes we’re out on the water, no matter what else might be going on in my life.
What drives you to compete?
I love the focus that having a goal brings to my athletic pursuits. Though I try to stay engaged and committed all season, I’m definitely way more motivated to get out of bed at 4:30 AM and push hard if we have a regatta coming up!
How can rowers use HOTSHOT?
In addition to the usual calf and hamstring cramps, rowers tend to cramp in our feet and forearms, especially in longer form head races in the fall. If you’re mid-race, taking HOTSHOT isn’t an option in that moment (can’t let go of your oar!), so taking it preventatively is a great idea as is using it for recovery.
What’s on your go-to workout playlist?
It really depends on my mood and the workout. If I’m doing hard pieces on the erg (i.e. rowing machine), it’s got to be something loud and aggressive like Eminem or Rihanna. If I’m out for a Sunday afternoon run and the sun is shining, it’s P!nk, Ed Sheeran and Sam Hunt!
What’s your gameday ritual?
No matter what else my teammates have brought to share at our regatta food table, I always pack a half peanut butter and honey sandwich for in-between races.
What is your “Unfinished Business”?
I’ve had the honor and pleasure of rowing in two Head of the Charles regattas. I would love to do it again . . . and finish in the top half to secure a spot for our club in the following year!
What is your favorite inspirational sports quote?
“Most people never run far enough on their first wind to find out they’ve got a second.” – William James