Across the country, people are rowing in honor of Grace Rett

This time last year, Grace Rett, a Holy Cross athlete from Uxbridge, set out on a remarkable challenge: beat the world record for a consecutive indoor row.

“We asked her what her realistic expectation was with this attempt and she said, ‘I’m either leaving the gym with the world record or on a gurney,’” said Cristopher Rett, Grace’s father.

In true Grace fashion, she left with the record.

“She rode for 62 hours and three seconds, she beat all of the time records for all of the age groups,” said Mary Jo Rett, Grace’s mother.

A testament to her drive, dedication and mental toughness.

“I never had a doubt she would finish it, that’s the attitude she had in life; once she starts something she finishes it,” said Brianne Rett, Grace’s sister.

Less than one month later, Rett died when her team van was involved in a terrible auto accident while training in Florida. This weekend, many are rowing in Grace’s honor.

“Colleges across the country, CrossFit gyms, basketball gyms, WPI football,” Christopher Rett said.

>>>MORE: Holy Cross Women’s rowing team member killed in serious crash in Florida

Rowing for a reason: to raise money for the Grace Rett Athletic Complex and Education Complex at the school she went to while growing up, Our Lady of the Valley in Uxbridge.

“Grace loved OLV from the minute she started, we all did. Breanne went there as well; it’s a small little school, we say it’s a mighty little school,” Mary Jo Rett said.

As the Rett family faces their first Christmas without Grace, the support comes right when they need it.

“I was just thinking yesterday about the season of advent and each week is peace, love, hope and joy, and I was having a little trouble finding all of those. But then I look around and see the support, it’s getting us through the hardest times,” Mary Jo Rett said.

To donate visit www.gracetothefinish.com

Cox Media Group