Drexel University Athletics
Photo by: Jim Beaver/Sideline Photos
Henry to Compete in First Black, All-Female 8+
10/20/2022 1:23:00 PM | Women's Rowing, Drexel Athletics
PHILADELPHIA – Drexel University rowing will be a part of history this weekend as sophomore Baylor Henry will compete in a boat entered by Rowing in Color at the Head of the Charles Regatta. It is believed to be the first Black, all-female 8+ boat.
Rowing in Color is a podcast that is dedicated to amplifying the voices of people of color in rowing.
"It's really to show everyone that we are just as capable as everyone else and to show that Black excellence is a thing; that Black women can be in a boat, compete and be fast," said Henry.
Henry has appeared on the podcast previously and has an Instagram page called Black Girls Row that spotlights Black athletes and women in rowing.
"For me, it's kind of emotional," continued Henry. "When I was 15 at my high school program, it didn't look like there would be a possibility to see a women's Black 8. To know that I'm in it, leading it, stroking it, it's beautiful and inspirational and I'm very excited for the future, especially to know it won't be the last time."
The boat will compete at one of the biggest regattas of the fall season, the Head of the Charles in Boston, taking part in the Women's Club 8+, which races at 1:24 p.m. on Saturday, October 22.
"I think it's huge that Baylor gets to be a part of this," said Asiya Mahmud, associate head coach of rowing at Drexel. "This is history making to have this opportunity, not only to show their skill in the sport, but also to show both adults and younger people that this is possible."
Henry said that Mahmud has been an inspiration to her as well.
"I love getting to see my own coach, who is black, be in the position she is in and be someone who I can relate to in so many ways. I have so much respect for her as someone who is able to lead our team."
Rowing in Color is a podcast that is dedicated to amplifying the voices of people of color in rowing.
"It's really to show everyone that we are just as capable as everyone else and to show that Black excellence is a thing; that Black women can be in a boat, compete and be fast," said Henry.
Henry has appeared on the podcast previously and has an Instagram page called Black Girls Row that spotlights Black athletes and women in rowing.
"For me, it's kind of emotional," continued Henry. "When I was 15 at my high school program, it didn't look like there would be a possibility to see a women's Black 8. To know that I'm in it, leading it, stroking it, it's beautiful and inspirational and I'm very excited for the future, especially to know it won't be the last time."
The boat will compete at one of the biggest regattas of the fall season, the Head of the Charles in Boston, taking part in the Women's Club 8+, which races at 1:24 p.m. on Saturday, October 22.
"I think it's huge that Baylor gets to be a part of this," said Asiya Mahmud, associate head coach of rowing at Drexel. "This is history making to have this opportunity, not only to show their skill in the sport, but also to show both adults and younger people that this is possible."
Henry said that Mahmud has been an inspiration to her as well.
"I love getting to see my own coach, who is black, be in the position she is in and be someone who I can relate to in so many ways. I have so much respect for her as someone who is able to lead our team."
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