April 21, 2009        

Olympic Medalist Visits Eden

On Friday, April 24, Olympic rowing medalist and Eden High School alumnus Melanie Kok will visit her former school to speak with students, parents and community members about the mindset necessary for success on and off the water.

Melanie’s speech comes in advance of Sunday’s (April 29) Early Bird Regatta, the start of the high school rowing season in Niagara. “We’re very excited to have Melanie return to Eden,” says Janet Elliott, Eden Teacher. “Her successes at the 2008 Beijing Olympics were very inspiring, and students are looking forward to the opportunity to hear about her experiences and what contributed to her success in China.”

While Melanie’s speech may be of particular interest to rowers, Elliott says the talk will feature something for everyone. “The importance of having balance our lives is a major theme of Melanie’s speech. For some, that may mean finding a balance between work and home life, for athletes that may mean finding a balance between training, studies and personal life. We are all capable of great things and Melanie will highlight the need to nurture all aspects of our lives as we pursue our dreams,” says Elliott.

At the 2008, Summer Olympic Games held in Beijing, China, Melanie and her partner Tracy Cameron won the bronze medal in the women's lightweight doubles event.

Event Details:

Date: Friday, April 24
Time: 7:00 p.m., there will be an opportunity for autographs after the presentation
Location: Eden High School cafeteria, 535 Lake Street, St. Catharines