Rebecca Shorten: The Olympic journey that started in a chemistry classroom

While the crew continued to progress, Shorten became the standout member.

Marron taught a technique at Methody called the MCB technical model, through which Shorten’s natural ability shone.

“Rebecca really took to that,” recalled Marron.

“She moved naturally and was able to understand the rowing stroke. It was only a matter of time that she was going to build on that and take it to the nth degree.

“For me, there are three strands and all three need to be top notch. There is commitment to the sport and all the demands of the sport.

“There is fitness, and at times it is extreme fitness. The third is technique and having a really sound understanding of good, technical rowing. Rebecca had all three of those in spades.”

Marron also said the groundwork for professional rowing is laid in the grassroots level, and in Shorten’s instance that was on the banks of the Lagan.

Even at schools’ level the dedication required is extraordinary.

On top of their daily school routine at Methody, the rowers will start at 7am three times a week, followed by more sessions after the final bell and a double session on Saturdays.

It is rigorous stuff, and Marron admits it takes intense dedication at a young age.

“It is demanding, but they are highly organised, highly trained and able to do it.

“There are a lot of sacrifices, but a lot of that is compensated by the group of mates they have down here.

“The social life that the rowers have, they have their own social life. It’s probably tamer than a normal teenager but they still enjoy it nonetheless.”

That was a process that Shorten followed as she developed in the sport.

“I wouldn’t say she stood out as a leader, but one thing about rowing is the squad has to learn to suffer, and suffer together,” said Marron.

“Part of being able to suffer and put up with all the hardship and training, you know you have the backing of your mates. That really did help her grow and develop.

“We can set people off on the pathway to the very top.”