IOWA CITY, Iowa – University of Iowa women’s rowing coach Jeff Garbutt announced on Monday that Mia Lawrence, Karen Carey, Sophia Foreman, Poppy Brooke Turner, and Alli Merritt signed a National Letter of Intent to attend the University of Iowa.
Karen Carey | Cappoquin, Ireland (Blackwater Community School)
– As a junior, represented Ireland at Home International Regatta (2x and 4x-).
– As a senior, represented Ireland at Home International Regatta (A1x and 4x-).
– Irish Championships 1x 6th.
– Member of Fermoy Rowing Club.
Why Iowa
“I chose Iowa because I know I won’t have to choose between athletics or academics. They also have a great rowing team which is very important to me. I’m excited to see where the next 4 years brings me.”
Sophia Foreman | Fleet, UK (Shiplake College)
– As a sophomore, joined GB start program (talent ID for Olympic pathway).
– As a junior, joined Shiplake College and attended GB early IDs.
– Placed top five in Junior 8’s at Women’s Head of the River.
– National Schools Regatta 1x 2nd.
– HRR 1x semi-finalist.
Why Iowa
“After visiting Iowa, I was incredibly impressed with the campus and rowing facilities they had to offer. The women’s squad and coaching team seemed both supportive and hard-working, creating a positive atmosphere, which I look forward to being a part of.”
Mia Lawrence | Maidenhead, UK (Marlow Boat Club)
– Coupe de la Jeunesse GB Wu19 2x 1st place, 2023
– Great Britain vs France selection for W2x, 2022
– Henley Women’s W J18 1x 3rd place, 2022
– Schools Head of the River Race W J18 4x, 1st place, 2023
– National School’s Regatta W J18 4x 2nd place, 2023
Why Iowa
“I chose Iowa due to the one-of-a-kind team atmosphere and positive, but driven approach to all training. The support from within the team and from the coaches is like no other, creating the perfect environment to pursue my athletic and academic career whilst also supporting my personal growth.”
Alli Merritt | Twyford, UK (Shiplake College)
– Henley Rowing Club, J13-16
– Shiplake College, J17-18
– Home International 2x 1st (in 2- and 8+).
– Henley Women’s Regatta 1x 1st (in 4+ and 8+).
– Brit Champs 1x 2nd.
– Henley Royal 4x semi-finalist.
Why Iowa
“A friend recommended the university; I had spoken to the coaches for a long period of time and really liked their approach. I think it felt, not only like a great place to row but like a family.”
Poppy Brooke Turner | Deal Kent, UK (The King’s School Canterbury)
– As a senior, represented England at Home Internationals.
– Home Internationals 2x Gold (in JW Pair and JW Eight).
– Pairs Head 1x 2nd.
– Docklands Head 1x 1st (in a single).
Why Iowa
“I chose Iowa because as soon as I arrived everyone made me feel very welcome, the vibe of the team and the coaches were high, and I thought it would be a great environment for me to spend the next four years.”
JEFF GARBUTT on SIGNEES
“I am excited to welcome this new class of Hawkeyes to Beckwith Boathouse and the University of Iowa. They have shown an incredible level of rowing ability through their school/home club racing, but also with their level of international experience. To be able to represent your country is a special thing. Their talent and experiences will only help our team to take another step in our growth. I look forward to getting them all here in Iowa City!”