The Early Bird Wins 6 National Medals: James Gerdsen

James Gerdsen doesn’t boast of his 6 national medals. They sit humbly in a shadow box on a wall in his office. If you ask him about them, he will tell you it was just hard work.

After graduating from high school, James Gerdsen got a full ride scholarship to Boston University for rowing.  James Gerdsen’s interest in the sport began at a much younger age. His uncle used to row and he would head down to the river to watch him. When James Gerdsen was a little older, his uncle taught him proper technique.  It was amazing to him that one small little boat powered by a man and two sticks could go so fast. His parents bought him his first row boat when he was 12.

James Gerdsen practiced every day before school. He claimed it helped him clear his head. Even in the winter months, he never missed a day unless he was really sick.  Eventually he began to compete.  Then he started to win. Once James Gerdsen was old enough, college recruiters started to notice his skills. Several colleges offered him scholarships, but he chose Boston University. 

There, James Gerdsen would row with a team as well as individually. The synchronicity of the rowing team fascinated him. It was as a team they could win. Everyone had to pull at the same time in order for the boat to glide seamlessly through the water.  James Gerdsen arrived to practice an hour early at 5 am to get a head start. He focused on perfecting every move.  He encouraged and critiqued others on their form to improve the team’s time. Slowly the team shaved seconds off their time. They were able to win 6 National Medals by the time it was all said and done.