Suzi Perry is inspired to power on by medal tally

A BPP University law student and rower has drawn inspiration from Team GB’s heroes in the Rio 2016 Olympics to drive on her sporting ambitions.

Suzi Perry, 23, powered home for BPP University in the British Universities and Colleges Sport (BUCS) Championships women's lightweight category (-59kg) back in May and has been performing strongly in domestic summer regattas this year.

Her fantastic form also saw Perry represent GB in the FISU World University Championships in Poland earlier this month.

The Putney powerhouse was one-half of the lightweight women’s double in the World competition and was very nearly forced to withdraw from their event in Poznan due to illness.

However, Perry battled through the pain and a determined performance against the odds saw the pair finish 10th.

“It was very tough to go on and race. I’m disappointed with the final result but it was a great experience overall,” Perry said.

“Sport can be cruel sometimes but I was proud to represent GB and it was brilliant to race on an international stage – something I want to continue doing.”

And Perry says she’s been spurred on even further thanks to Team GB’s medal-winning rowers in Rio during this summer’s impressive performance.

“Their success has been a big inspiration and will no doubt do wonders for the publicity of the sport and the support and funding it receives,” said Suzi who is undertaking her Legal Practice Course at BPP University’s Holborn site.

“The most significant factor, I believe, is that a big part of the medals GB won have been in the larger boat classes which will do well to encourage larger participation in the sport.”

Suzi is not the only successful rower in the family, which boasts a junior international dad, a recent Henley Royal Regatta-winning brother, a Henley Royal Regatta-winning uncle, a GB Women's eight-rower aunt and a Sydney and Tokyo University-coaching uncle.

Originally from Liphook in Hampshire, Suzi added:
“I just can’t thank everyone enough for their support. This year has been a big learning curve for me and I’m looking forward to seeing where my rowing will take me.”

Suzi is appealing for sponsorship, if any Putney companies would like to back her please email: suziperry_uk@yahoo.co.uk.

Suzi Perry seen here as stroke of a quad scull