In a heartfelt account featured on NZZ.ch, Jeannine Gmelin opens up about her poignant journey back to the sport she loves after facing unimaginable loss. Following the tragic passing of her partner and coach, Robin Dowell, a year and a half ago, Gmelin initially stepped away from rowing. Now, the Zurich world champion is fighting for Olympic qualification once again, this time in a different boat.
The article delves into Gmelin's emotional turmoil following Dowell's sudden death during a training session on Lake Sarnen. Wrestling with grief, Gmelin found herself unable to continue in the sport that had been so closely intertwined with Dowell's presence. Their partnership, both on and off the water, had been the driving force behind Gmelin's pursuit of the "Paris 2024" goal.
Navigating through the stages of grief, Gmelin gradually found solace in the rhythm of rowing once more. Supported by her sister and newfound teammate, Nina Wettstein, Gmelin embarked on a new chapter in her athletic career, this time in the double sculls. Together, they are striving to secure a spot at the upcoming Olympic Games in Paris.
The article highlights Gmelin's resilience and determination as she embraces the challenges of a fresh start. Through candid reflections on her grief process and the rediscovery of her passion for rowing, Gmelin's story serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration.
Original Source: NZZ.ch
https://www.nzz.ch/sport/rudern-nach-schicksalsschlag-jeannine-gmelin-kaempft-um-olympia-qualifikation-ld.1830158