... this is not news because she's black or poor. It's news because she dangerously overwheight and athsmatic, in a sport that requires balance, bouyancy, and lots of fucking cardio.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/05/12/AR2010051205193.html
She should not be there, this will not be a feel good story when she dies. At least she sculls solo.
As for her mom; Yes, it's great that you support your kid in the chasing of her dreams.... but what the hell are yo setting her up for? Pro-Tip, get your kids involved in things that they can succeed at, and they'll be happier.
Let'm dabble in fun stuff, but don't let them devote their time and efforts to something that's just going to crush their souls when it ends in failure.... or tragety.