Rachel Morris crowned FISA Para-Rower of the Year

Rachel Morris has been named Para-Rower of the Year by rowing’s international federation World Rowing (FISA).

The accolade comes after a phenomenal performance by Morris on the Lagoa in Rio, which saw her win Paralympic gold in dramatic fashion in the arms-shoulders single scull.

In her first Paralympic rowing final, Morris suffered a poor start and was in fourth place at the halfway mark. She demonstrated strength, power and determination as she fought her way back through the field to take gold in a time of 5:13:69 beating the Chinese para-rower, Lili Wang, who had led for entire race.

This was Morris’ second Paralympic gold, adding to the gold medal she won in hand-cycling at the 2008 Beijing Paralympic Games and to the bronze she won in hand-cycling at London 2012.

Rachel transferred to rowing in 2013, seeking a new challenge. She won her first silver medal in 2014 on her international debut at the World Cup in Aiguebelette and followed this up with a second silver in 2015 at the World Championship in Aiguebelette.

Commenting on Rachel’s award and her successful season, Sir David Tanner, Performance Director at British Rowing said: “I am delighted for Rachel that her successes this season have been recognised by the international rowing community. It is a hugely prestigious award and is testament to both Rachel’s success on the water, as well as her wider contribution to the sport. Rachel has had a phenomenal year and this award caps it off brilliantly.”

Annamarie, Chairman of British Rowing and vice chairman of the British Paralympic Association added: “I am so proud of Rachel and all that she has achieved. She is a great ambassador for our sport and Paralympics GB. She is a truly worthy winner of this award.”