Queer Paralympic Rower Honored by Birmingham City University

Described by British Rowing as the greatest Paralympic rower, Lauren Rowles OBE, has been honoured by Birmingham City University at a ceremony today (30^th July) at Symphony Hall. Upon recieving her honorary doctorate during BCU’s graduations, Rowles shared a message for the graduates: “Don’t let other people’s expectations define your potential.”

The 28-year-old, who retired from the sport of rowing last year, Paralympic three-time gold medal winner, two-time World champion, and three-time European champion in rowing. Her winning streak may not be over though, having confirmed that she will return to wheelchair track racing.

“To be recognised by a University in the city where I grew up makes it even more special,” Lauren said.

“Birmingham has shaped so much of who I am, both as a person and as an athlete, so this feels like a real full circle moment.

“Through sport, I didn’t just rebuild my physical strength; I rebuilt my confidence, my identity and my belief in what I was capable of.

“It gave me a community of people who didn’t see disability as a limitation but simply as part of who I was. That shift in mindset was transformational and ultimately led me to represent Great Britain and achieve things I never thought possible.

“Now I see disability as something to be proud of. It’s part of my story, it’s shaped who I am, and I wouldn’t be the person I am today without those experiences.”

Lauren was diagnosed with transverse myelitis at the age of 13, and became interested in wheelchair track racing after watching the London 2012 Paralympic Games. In 2015 she was scouted by British Rowing, and a year later at the 2016 Rio Paralympic Games, Rowles claimed her first Olympic gold medal at 18.

Speaking on the importance of sport and exercise for people living with disabilities, Lauren said: “Access has to be considered from the very beginning, not added as an afterthought.

“Most importantly, we need to stop focusing on what disabled people can’t do and start creating environments that unlock what they can.

“When barriers are removed and opportunities are there, the impact that sport can have on someone’s confidence, health and future is extraordinary.”