East County Athlete of the Week: Janet Crouse

Janet Crouse, 75, is a member of the Survivors in Sync dragon boat team. She was selected by SIS as the team's representative in the Sandy Smith Global Finale at the International Breast Cancer Paddler's Commission (IBCPC) Dragon Boat Festival in Florence, Italy, on July 8. The Sandy Smith Finale, named after the IBCPC's first global liaison, takes one member from each team in the festival and divides them into five boats, which then cross the finish line together.

When did you start dragon boat rowing?

In 2014, right before the last Dragon Boat Festival (which was at Nathan Benderson Park). 

What was the appeal to you?

I like the competitiveness. I used to play tennis, too, but I had a rod put in my leg (in 2015) and I haven't been able to play. Dragon boat is still something I can do. 

What was the biggest challenge of learning it?

Being coordinated enough to do it. The stamina, too. Angela Long (Survivors in Sync head coach) would say, "OK, let's go around the lake (at Benderson Park)" and I would be like, "Around the lake? I can barely go to the corner!" I didn't think I could paddle so far. After sticking with it, it got easier. 

What was your reaction to being the Sandy Smith Finale nominee?

We were at a Panera for a meeting before the race day, and when Angela said "We voted, and our nominee is Janet Crouse," I had my head down writing something. I stopped writing and said, "Who?" Then guess what I did? I cried (laughs). It's so special that the team thought enough to nominate me. It's something I will never forget and cherish forever. 

What is your favorite food?

Well, not carrots, that's for sure (laughs). I'm allergic! My favorite is probably steak, medium rare. I get cravings for it sometimes. 

What is your dream vacation?

I had never been out of the country before this trip. Now that I've seen Florence, I'd like to go back and see other parts of Italy. 

What is your favorite TV show?

I like the show "Mom." It's light and makes me laugh. I like comedies. They don't get me as sad as the news does.  

What is your favorite book?

Can I sidebar? Have you ever met someone on leave from a book club? I am (laughs). I couldn't keep up with the readings, I kept falling asleep. My favorite book ... I really liked "Water for Elephants." 

What is the best piece of advice you received?

Live one day at a time and enjoy each one. Stay busy, too. Stay active. 

Finish this sentence: "Janet Crouse is ... "

... Energetic and happy on life.