For former HCOS student Ester M., the months following her graduation in 2025 have been nothing short of remarkable. What began as a casual suggestion from a friend quickly grew into enthusiasm, and that enthusiasm turned to dedication, which took her and her team to a national level.
- Launching From the Dock
Ester’s time rowing started in the simplest way: a friend encouraged her to try it.
“I loved rowing as soon as I tried it,” Ester shares, “I’ve been rowing ever since!”
As she committed herself to the sport, Ester began training 12 times a week with Nanaimo Rowing Club. This often entails waking before sunrise for 5:00 a.m. practices, then returning for afternoon sessions at 3:00 p.m. This schedule demanded intense discipline, but because of home education, she had the flexibility to do so.
“It was really hard to do online school at home because you have to be extremely self-motivated and disciplined in getting your work done,” Ester commented honestly, “this, however, helped me in rowing and even now in university. All the hard work has paid off!”
Her consistent effort brought rapid growth, and soon enough, she was ready to compete.
- Race Day Reflections
Less than a year after starting her rowing career, Ester found herself racing at the 2025 Canada Cup in London, Ontario, on Fanshawe Lake. Competing at the national level so soon into her rowing career is already a remarkable feat, but she took it even further.
Ester won gold in the Mixed 8+ and silver in the Women’s 4-.
“I would have never been able to do this if I didn’t have the flexibility HCOS provided me,” Ester said, “a big thank you is needed!”
Those victories not only marked a milestone in her athletic career but also in her confidence.
- Eyes on the Next Finish Line
Now, Ester is in her first year at the University of Victoria, studying Art History and Visual Studies while competing as a student athlete on the UVic Women’s Varsity Rowing Team.
Balancing academics with high-level athletics presents its challenges, but Ester continues to rise to them and even surpass them. The HCOS community praises you, Ester, both in the water and in the classroom!
Share Your Story
Do you or your child have a story of success to share? We’d love to hear it! Whether you’re excelling in academics, sports, the arts, or something entirely unique, we want to celebrate your achievements.
Share your journey with us by filling out our quick form.
Let’s continue celebrating the incredible students of HCOS who are redefining what education can look like.
