One half of a dynamic duo has just returned from a hugely successful trip at a major international rowing regatta in the United States.

Diane Barr and her younger sister Kathryn swept the competition away at the U.S. Masters Nationals in Grand Rapids Michigan. Diane won five gold medals and Kathryn won one gold. The sisters also rowed their way to a silver medal in the double sculls event.  

“That was a big one for us,” said Barr, who is also a school teacher. “Earlier this year we won the Royal Canadian Henley, so it’s been a fantastic season for us.”

“Nobody works harder than Dianne,” said Barr’s coach Mike Smith. “She’s out on the water 20 hours a week and in this sport, it’s how hard you work that determines your results.”

The Barr sisters started rowing alongside the boys in Toronto; little did they know that was the start of something special.

“They decided they’d let us form a team, this was the 80’s at the Argonaut Rowing Club in Toronto,” said Barr. “We took off 30 years and now we’re back.”

The sisters have won every Regatta they’re in. They may train separately, but when they come together its magic on the water.

“We all live busy lives, but it’s really about being healthy and having fun,” said Barr, adding it’s also nice to win.

Kathryn is currently recovering from a torn ACL suffered over the weekend, so Diane is now rowing solo for the rest of the season.  Diane says she’s taking on all comers.

“It’s satisfying to know that we’re both competing in our 50’s against the ‘A’ division racers who are between 21 to 27 years-old.”

Barr is now preparing for the Muskoka Fall Classic next month at Gull Lake in Gravenhurst.