Together with Elias Hautsch (Vienna), Mathias Mair took part in the ML2x class in Rotterdam, rowing his way to second place! We spoke with the silver medalist about how he combines studying with competitive sports.

What do you enjoy most about rowing?
Mathias Mair: I love rowing because it is a combination of physical endurance, perfecting one’s rowing technique, team spirit, and the ability to persevere, all of which are essential to successfully engage in the sport.

What was your competition experience like?
Mathias Mair: We took advantage of the Student World Championships this year to prepare for the U-23 World Championships, which will take place a month later. We wanted to recharge our batteries and boost our self-confidence one last time. Despite the difficult conditions (extreme wind and waves), we did really well in all three races and won the Student Vice-World Champion title during the final.

What felt worst – placing second in the World Championships or narrowly missing coming in first?
Mathias Mair: I'm definitely happy about winning second place. During the World University Championships, our Italian rivals were reigning world champions in the elite category so losing out to these strong opponents was something we could cope with.

How do you like studying business at the JKU?
Mathias Mair: The business degree program an ideal combination of business administration, social sciences, and economics. In addition, there are a small number of classes that have mandatory attendance requirements and this gives me the opportunity to also pursue competitive sports.

How do you juggle athletics and studying?
Mathias Mair: It is not easy to pursue both an academic degree and actively take part in competitive sports. Instead of morning classes, spending the afternoon in the library, and going to a Mensafest or the LUI pub in the evening, I usually have two or three training sessions on my schedule during the day, meaning there's not much time left to study in the evening. In principle, however, it is definitely possible to study and take part in competitive sports, but I may not graduate in six semesters (laughs).

What are your ultimate goals?
Mathias Mair: My goal for next season definitely includes winning a medal at the U-23 World Championships. I don’t plan to take part in any student competitions next year. In general, I want to move ahead in both in my studies and in rowing, and I want to retain the joy and enthusiasm for the sport for as long as I can.