Olympic Gold Medallist James Rudkin Revisits Former Rowing Club

An Olympic gold medallist from Paris has revisited his previous rowing club to provide coaching and motivation to its younger members. James Rudkin, aged 30, a native of Litchborough, Northamptonshire, was a member of Team GB’s men’s eight rowing crew that secured a gold medal in August. From 2007 to 2012, he underwent daily training at Northampton Rowing Club for a period of five years. He conveyed to BBC Look East, “It’s surreal to be back.” “I have great memories learning to row here. These teenagers are learning how to push themselves, but rowing takes time.” “I wasn’t the best junior. It took me until the end of my career to be the best. The process took 12 years.” “I just kept plugging away working out how I could get better every day. It’s not an accident when people win, it’s because they practice.” “You get better the more you train.” Rudkin dedicated multiple hours to instructing the junior crews on the River Nene and also conducted an indoor rowing session. Teagan Smith, aged 17, expressed her excitement at encountering the Olympic champion. She stated, “It was really cool and I listened really hard.” “From this little club he went to Paris and won gold. It’s so inspiring.” Rudkin was a member of the GB Olympic squad for eight years and additionally earned a bronze medal at the Tokyo Olympics. He anticipates that his journey will encourage more individuals to engage in rowing. He remarked, “It’s the ultimate team sport.” “It doesn’t matter what your background is or where you’re from. On the water you are equal. You can be whoever you want.” Establishments such as Northampton Rowing Club constitute an essential component of the local athletic community. “I have loved every minute of it. Rowing is hard training and long hours, but it is so rewarding with your friends.”