Birgit Skarstein, one of Norway’s most prominent para-athletes, has announced her retirement from competitive rowing as of January 1, 2024. The decision, initially set to take place following the World Championships scheduled for the summer, was expedited due to disagreements with the Norwegian Rowing Federation (Roforbundet), pushing her to step away from the sport she loves.
"It has been quite the process because I really wanted to continue and feel I have more to give. It would have been so incredible to perform at the World Championships and take medals there," Skarstein stated during her announcement, reported by NRK. Her departure marks the end of a remarkable career where she has made immense contributions not only to rowing but also to paralympic sports as a whole.
At 35, Skarstein reflected on her extensive career, having participated in six Olympic Games, twelve World Championships, and numerous European Championships over the years. Her achievements include picking up multiple medals, such as one gold and one silver at the Paralympics and seven World Championship titles across various disciplines.
Skarstein noted the pivotal changes within the Norwegian Rowing Federation—changes she stated she could not support. "The decision has been accelerated by changes within the Rowing Federation on how they think and operate... I hope my decision will create reflection on what we want with sports," she expressed during her conversation with NTB. Her words highlight the broader theme of inclusion within sports, emphasizing the need for equal opportunity regardless of gender, sexuality, skin color, or disability.
The athlete, who became paralyzed from the waist down after an accident back in 2009, shared how her initial goal of competing at the upcoming World Championships turned bittersweet. She expressed both sadness and gratitude as she reminisced about her career. Skarstein added, "When I see back, I feel lucky to be able to retire at the top. I see incredible value on the community and friendships I’ve built during this time."
During her active years, she not only competed but also served as a beacon of hope and inspiration for many aspiring athletes. Skarstein emphasized the importance of community and the connections forged through sports. “It is not 'us and them' — it is ‘we.’ I have always tried to use my career to cultivate fields, create interest, and drive collaboration for diverse sports and inclusive societies,” she noted.
Reflecting on her proudest moment, she recalled winning gold at the Tokyo Paralympics, which gave her the opportunity to showcase the fruits of her long and strenuous training. "We worked for ten years to get hold of the gold medal. It was challenging because of the high humidity, heat, and COVID-19 as backdrops. But everything was so well planned and executed; it was thrilling to achieve it," Skarstein stressed, illustrating not only her sporting prowess but also her resilience and dedication.
Now, as she transitions from the world of elite sports, Skarstein is excited about her future endeavors. She will take on the role of NRK’s new expert for para-sports during the upcoming World Championships, set to take place from February 26 to March 9, 2024, in Trondheim. She is also venturing to work with Artificial Intelligence for Reitan Retail and plans to engage with various courses, including one at Harvard.
Looking forward to her next chapter, Skarstein expressed optimism saying, "I am sure it will be great!" She mentioned her previous studies in political science at the University of Oslo and plans to continue her advocacy for inclusiveness within society through her work.
On the side, she is nominated for both "Para Athlete of the Year" and "Name of the Year" at the upcoming annual Sports Gala, set to be aired on NRK on January 4. Regarding her dreams, Skarstein concluded, "My dream is for sports and society to reach a point where no one has to be included because everyone is already involved."
Birgit Skarstein’s retirement marks not just the end of her competitive career but the beginning of her role as an ambassador for change within sports and society. Her legacy will undoubtedly inspire those who follow, reminding us all of the importance of inclusivity, determination, and community.