Navigating the Waters: Halle Fee’s Journey to Success at Nathan Benderson Park

The Kansas State rowing team made waves at the prestigious Nathan Benderson Park in Sarasota County, Florida, as the third varsity eight crew, comprised entirely of freshmen, captured a silver medal in the Grand Final. Halle Fee, a junior from Lee’s Summit, Missouri, reflected on the unforgettable moment when everything clicked for the Wildcats on the 400-acre artificial lake.

Fee described the experience as akin to art, with the oars gliding seamlessly across the water’s surface. The team’s silver medal performance propelled them to a national ranking of No. 23, a significant achievement for a crew of newcomers.

For Fee, rowing was not always on her radar. A standout athlete in basketball, lacrosse, track and field, and cross country, she initially pursued lacrosse as her sport of choice. However, a letter from the K-State rowing team changed her trajectory, leading her to discover a passion for rowing and a sense of belonging at the university.

Despite the initial challenges of learning a new sport, Fee embraced the rigorous training regimen, including early morning sessions at the Intercollegiate Rowing Center and afternoon weight training at the Olympic Training Center. Through perseverance and dedication, she has grown both as an athlete and as a leader within the team.

As the end of her junior season approaches, Fee remains focused on being a positive influence for her teammates and setting a strong example for the underclassmen. With upcoming competitions at SIRA and the Big 12 Championship, Fee is determined to leave a lasting impact on the team and continue building the tight-knit bond they share.

The story of the Wildcats’ triumph at Nathan Benderson Park will be one that Fee cherishes for years to come, a testament to the team’s unity, determination, and ability to turn the sport of rowing into a work of art on the water.