Monica Sutton

Type 1 Diabetes to Indoor Rowing Champion

Monica Sutton, aged 58 from Sheffield, developed type 1 diabetes in her early twenties and this contributed to her becoming overweight, which in turn made her feel uncomfortable, unfit and less confident. Monica says; “My life seemed to revolve around trying to lose weight. Diets and the gym were never far from my mind but they didn’t do anything for me. I hated them.

“In May 2003 I injured my foot on the treadmill and ventured onto the indoor rowing machine as it was non-weight bearing. At that time I was approaching 20 stone and wearing size 26 dresses. I was pretty despondent.” It was suggested that Monica join the ‘crew class’ of rowers at the gym, but she remained extremely conscious of her size and worried about her ability. An inspiring and supportive coach, Vicky McDougall not only reassured her but also suggested that she had really found ‘her’ sport in rowing.

When Vicky showed Monica the results from the British Indoor Rowing Championships (for women aged between 50 and 59), she was amazed: “I saw that already I was in the top 30 in Britain,” says Monica. “I discovered a competitive side to my personality that I never knew I had! I asked Vicky to draw up a programme for me and got an entry form.”

Being a highly skilled oarsman herself, Vicky coached Monica in the correct rowing techniques that are crucial for effective and safe rowing. Through rowing regularly, the weight fell away (she is now a fit size 12/14) and Monica’s rowing times got better and better. In November 2003 Monica achieved a Bronze medal at the British Indoor Rowing Championships, it was presented by Sir Steve Redgrave.

“I wore my medal around Sheffield for days, I even wore it to the supermarket!” remembers Monica. Since then she frequently competes at indoor rowing competitions and has a mantelpiece of medals to prove it.

Once she lost sufficient weight Monica was inspired to try outdoor rowing too and is now an active member of Doncaster Rowing Club starting in 4s and 8s and more recently trying her hand in a single. For a person whose balance was so awful she never progressed from a tricycle to a two-wheel bike, this is some feat. As Monica’s passion for rowing has grown, so has her confidence:

“My self esteem has grown hugely,” she says. “This impacts on every part of my life; in my work and at home. Many women in their fifties may feel that taking up sport isn’t for them. I say find the sport that’s right for you, that makes you tick. Then go for it! It may mean you have to put yourself higher up the list of priorities, but family and friends will soon get used to the idea that you’re no longer a doormat! Indoor and outdoor rowing are now a very important part of my life. They have bought fitness, improved self-esteem, weight loss and a huge circle of friends. Rowing is a very sociable sport!”

Managing her type 1 diabetes, which involves juggling insulin and diet, is a challenge even with her training as a diabetes nurse specialist. But nothing stops Monica from enjoying her rowing. She is particularly keen to stress the benefits for people with type 2 diabetes (many of whom are overweight): “Sport and exercise can really make a terrific difference to these people as it helps with insulin resistance which is a key feature of the condition.”