June 07, 2011

Alumna discusses Olympic aspirations

Abby Broughton BA ’05, a top international rower, describes how Lewis & Clark influenced her athletic trajectory in this magazine feature.

Abby Broughton BA ’05, a top international rower, describes how Lewis & Clark influenced her athletic trajectory in this magazine feature.

Broughton, a studio art major, joined the rowing team at the suggestion of a professor, who thought the experience could help the first-year student manage the stress of college life. Broughton joined the Lewis & Clark rowing team during the fall of her sophomore year and earned a seat on the varsity squad later that year.

Though her academic excellence was already well known, Broughton continued to gain recognition for her athletic prowess in her final years at Lewis & Clark. During her junior year, she began training at a sculling camp to prepare for joining a national team.

In the Teton Valley Magazine profile, Broughton discusses how she has overcome tragedy in her family and recommitted herself to rowing. Last spring, she and her teammate captured gold at the World Cup and competed at the World Championships.

“Going to the Olympics is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and it’s totally within my reach,” Broughton said.

Continue reading the story at Teton Valley Magazine.