Champion rower James Rudkin returns to former club

Olympic champion James Rudkin rowed at Northampton Rowing Club as a teenager

A gold medallist from the Paris Olympics has returned to his former rowing club to help coach and inspire its junior members.

James Rudkin, 30, from Litchborough, Northamptonshire, was part of Team GB's men's eight rowing crew, which won gold in August.

He trained every day at Northampton Rowing Club for five years between 2007 and 2012.

"It’s surreal to be back," he told BBC Look East.

"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 spent several hours coaching the junior crews on the River Nene and led an indoor rowing session.

Motivate others

Teagan Smith, 17, said she was thrilled to meet the Olympic champion.

"It was really cool and I listened really hard," she said.

"From this little club he went to Paris and won gold. It’s so inspiring."

Rudkin spent eight years in the GB Olympic squad and also won a bronze medal at the Tokyo Olympics. He hopes his example will motivate others to take up rowing.

"It’s the ultimate team sport," he said.

"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.

"Places like Northampton Rowing Club are a vital part of the local sporting community.

"I have loved every minute of it. Rowing is hard training and long hours, but it is so rewarding with your friends."