In this episode of Last Stroke Counts, we are thrilled to welcome back our beloved returning guest, The People's Champion, Dave Bell. Known for his remarkable rowing career and insightful perspectives, Dave shares his experiences and advice on life after rowing, preparing for the transition, and setting new challenges.

Dave delves into what rowers can do during their careers to better prepare for life post-sport. He covers important aspects like financial planning and developing transferable skills, providing valuable guidance for athletes navigating this significant change. The main focus of our conversation, however, centers around the elusive goal of breaking the 6-minute barrier for the 2k ergo test—a feat that symbolizes not just physical prowess but mental strength and determination.

We also explore how rowers can evaluate their position within a program, make informed decisions about their training environments, and personalize their training sessions for optimal results. Dave emphasizes the importance of a growth mindset in achieving goals that may initially seem beyond reach, offering insights that are applicable to rowers at all levels.

As always, it's a pleasure to have The People's Champion on the show, imparting wisdom and laughter in equal measure.

So, tune in & join us for an episode full of brilliant advice, as we explore the journey of breaking new barriers, both on the ergo and beyond, where every challenge and every last stroke truly counts.

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM

@dave_a_bell

@laststrokecounts

@rowgearuk

@thomasclark.gb

@piotrgggolawski

In this episode of Last Stroke Counts, we bring you a delightful roundtable panel of Brookes rowing legends Alex Partridge, Al Heathcote & Ben Lewis.

Alex and Al, who clinched silver together at the Beijing Olympics in the men's eight, reunite with Ben to share a treasure trove of hilarious stories from their illustrious rowing careers. Al Heathcote, currently the General Manager of Leander Club and a former member of the British Armed Forces, brings a unique perspective, comparing the disciplines of army training and competitive rowing.

The conversation shares many light-hearted insights, filled with hilarious anecdotes, reflections on the sport's evolution over two decades, and the essence of what makes rowing such a compelling and life-shaping sport. From tales of camaraderie and mental resilience to Al's humorous recounts of his multiple 'retirements' and Alex's memory of a rare victory over the dominant Deutschland Achter, the stories strike as smoothly as a ’mighty fine oar’.

So, tune in & join us as we delve into the fun side of rowing, where every last stroke truly counts.

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM

@alexmpartridge

@alastair.heathcote

@ontheriverben

@laststrokecounts

@rowgearuk

@thomasclark.gb

@piotrgggolawski

In this episode of Last Stroke Counts, we delve into the genesis of The Winning Cox (WOX) with 2 of its founding mentors, Morgan Baynham-Williams and Zoe de Toledo, both incredibly accomplished coxes and previous guests on our show.

Morgan and Zoe unravel the origin story of WOX, sharing their motivations for creating a platform dedicated to coxing excellence. They discuss the critical gap in training and development for coxes, a facet of rowing often overlooked yet very pivotal to a crew's success. Through their journey, we learn about what WOX offers and who it's designed for, bringing to light the nuances of improving coxes all around the world.

The conversation also touches upon common frustrations in coxing, exploring how coxes can be better integrated into squads and encouraged to develop their unique leadership styles. Morgan and Zoe, with their wealth of experience, dive into practical advice that extends beyond coxes to coaches & rowers globally, aiming to enhance understanding and performance across the board.

So tune in & join us as we navigate the intricacies of strategy, psychology, and leadership that make every last stroke count.

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM

@thewinningcox

@morganbw7

@zoe.detoledo

@laststrokecounts

@rowgearuk

@thomasclark.gb

@piotrgggolawski

Contact Anne for Henley Women's Regatta enquiries at: [email protected]

In this episode of Last Stroke Counts, we are joined by Anne Buckingham, the beloved crew liaison of Henley Women's Regatta and an integral member of the Love Rowing charity. Anne, a familiar figure in the rowing community, shares her extensive experience and heartfelt dedication to the sport.

Anne takes us through the intricacies of planning a trip to the Henley Women's Regatta. She provides insider tips and advice for both local and international crews, shedding light on her role in making the regatta a more attractive and welcoming competition.

Anne emphasizes the significance of strong female role models in sports and reflects on the magnetic allure of rowing that keeps enthusiasts, like herself, deeply involved and passionate.

In addition, we touch upon Anne's impactful work with Love Rowing and discuss their initiatives to make the sport more accessible in traditionally non-rowing communities. 

Throughout our chat, we highlight the sport's incredible community spirit and the lifelong friendships it fosters.

So, tune in & join us as we uncover the joys and challenges of organizing one of rowing's most prestigious events and explore how the sport continues to captivate and bring people together in a world where every last stroke truly counts.

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM

@buckingham.anne

@laststrokecounts

@rowgearuk

@thomasclark.gb

@piotrgggolawski

In this episode of Last Stroke Counts, we're excited to sit down with Tom Jost, the Director of Rowing at Claire's Court School. Known as Josty around the circuit, he's not just a respected figure in UK rowing, but also a brilliant coach whose guidance has led to Henley Royal Regatta victories for both boy's and girl's crews at Claire's Court in 2016 & 2022.

Tom shares his journey in the rowing world, competing for GB as a junior, and developing his unique coaching style. Tom consistently helps athletes develop through the ranks and adds speed to any crew that he leads. We dive deep into his diverse methods and approach to training, exploring how layering rowing techniques can effectively lead to remarkable success on the water.

From discussing biomechanics, force application and improving boat speed, Josty provides invaluable insights that he's garnered over his extensive career, where he’s coached many GB crews at international regattas but also athletes like Jack Beaumont and Phil Clapp.

Josty's infectious enthusiasm, deep knowledge, and positive approach to the sport make this episode a great listen. His anecdotes, coupled with humour & wisdom, provide a glimpse into what makes a great coach and how to nurture winning teams.

So, tune in & join us as we remind ourselves all that competitive rowing is not just about physical strength, but also about thinking outside the box, where every last stroke counts.

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM

@josty83

@laststrokecounts

@rowgearuk

@thomasclark.gb

@piotrgggolawski

In this episode of Last Stroke Counts, we sit down with Steve O'Connor, the director of the River & Rowing Museum in Henley-on-Thames. Steve is at the forefront of transforming the institution, bringing a fresh wave of innovation and investment to the world’s largest rowing museum.

Steve shares with us the joys and challenges of running and managing a collection of 35,000+ rowing items. We delve into the creative process behind making it more appealing to the local community but also to interest repeat visitors and rowing enthusiasts from around the world.

We also touched upon the current events and new collections at the museum, particularly highlighting the excitement surrounding the Olympic year. Steve's approach to curating these exhibits helps showcase the full range of sport’s heritage making it worthwhile to visit year-round.

So tune in & join us as we explore yet another fascinating aspect of the rowing world and its history, where every last stroke counts.

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM

@riverandrowingmuseum

@laststrokecounts

@rowgearuk

@thomasclark.gb

@piotrgggolawski

In this episode of Last Stroke Counts, we're thrilled to sit down with Matt Aldridge, an Oxford Brookes legend, a World and double European Champion in the Men's Four from the GB Rowing Team. Matt's remarkable journey from Henley Royal Regatta triumphs to dominating the 2023 season unbeaten is a story of dedication, skill, and unwavering perseverance.

Matt walks us through his rowing beginnings, from being coached by his dad in a single, rise through the junior ranks representing Wales, and his phenomenal success at Oxford Brookes to now being a pillar in GB’s flagship boat. We delve a bit into the winning culture at Brookes, exploring what makes their system so effective and attractive for developing top-tier athletes.

The discussion then shifts to international rowing, where we discuss switching sides, trialling, selection, competing neck in neck with reigning Olympic Champions, and their unbeaten run. With the Paris Games on the horizon, Matt offers insights into the preparation, teamwork, and aspirations that define the world's leading rowing squad.

So, tune in & join us as we chat about all the elements that make rowing so incredible and exciting, such as the challenges, selection, the thrills of racing, and the relentless pursuit of excellence in our sport where every last stroke counts.

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM

@maldridge96

@laststrokecounts

@rowgearuk

@thomasclark.gb

@piotrgggolawski

In this special episode of Last Stroke Counts, we bring together a full Rowgear roundtable line-up featuring Morgan Baynham-Williams, Susie Dear, Joshua Bowesman-Jones, and Arthur Clark. This lively panel discussion veers away from our usual format for a bit of that classic rowing chat.

Each panellist brings their own unique perspective to the table. We talked about everything spanning winning, sinking, blowing during ergs and pieces, funny races, Boat Race fixtures, training during Christmas plus a few more topics. 

Arthur, who isn't a rower himself, offers an outside perspective on how to best support athletes, providing a fresh take on the rowing life. Meanwhile, we also catch up with Morgan, Susie, and Josh, getting the latest updates on their rowing journeys and hearing their stories and insights.

This episode is a delightful change of pace, filled with stories, laughter and tidbits. So tune in & join us for a roundtable chat where every last stroke truly counts.

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM

@morganbw7

@susie_dear

@jbowesmanjones

@arthur.clarky

@laststrokecounts

@rowgearuk

@thomasclark.gb

@piotrgggolawski

In this episode of Last Stroke Counts, we're excited to share our conversation with Lebby Eyres, a former Oxford Blue, accomplished freelance journalist, daring Atlantic rower, and the CEO of The Health Lottery. Her story is one of remarkable versatility, grit and enduring passion for rowing.

Lebby takes us on a journey through her career, starting from the waters of Oxford to the challenges she faced and her life beyond professional sports. She then leads us into the thrilling world of Ocean Rowing, detailing her incredible experience of crossing the Atlantic with the crew known as The Mothership.

We dive deep into the realities of competing on the open waters, discussing the daily struggles, the mental and physical demands of a 3000-mile-long race, losing 20 kilograms, steering around the storms, and the exhilaration of completing such a monumental challenge. Lebby's insights offer a rare glimpse into the Atlantic Challenge itself, branded as World’s Toughest Row, the preparation it entails, and the sheer determination required to conquer such a feat.

So, tune in & join us as we uncover the raw and inspiring stories of endurance, resilience, and the spirit of adventure. Whether you're a rowing enthusiast or simply love extraordinary tales of human achievement, this episode promises to captivate and inspire, reminding us that even out on the ocean, every last stroke counts.

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM

@lebbyeyres

@laststrokecounts

@rowgearuk

@thomasclark.gb

@piotrgggolawski

In this episode of Last Stroke Counts, we're joined by Charles Cousins, an Olympian, World Championship medalist in Beach Sprints, and a true powerhouse in the world of rowing. Known for his incredible strength and resilience, Charles has been a crucial part of the GB Men's Quad, leaving his mark between Beijing & Rio, including the memorable London 2012 Home Games.

Charles walks us through his rowing career, shedding light on dealing with a rigorous training regime, overcoming back surgeries, breaking barriers, and pulling 1:36 for 30 minutes whilst also having fun in the process.

He also shares his experiences of transitioning from traditional rowing to Beach Sprints which is Olympic’s newest addition and he breaks down what makes this style of racing so incredibly fun to watch and participate in. Charles also recounts completing eight triathlons in a single weekend, showcasing his passion for challenging himself and setting new records.

So, buckle up, tune in & join us for a chat in this episode with Charles Cousins as we dive into the life of a rowing powerhouse, exploring his relentless spirit, thrilling experiences and honest reflections of a champion who continuously pushes the boundaries of what's possible, where every last challenge and every last stroke truly counts.

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM

@charlescousins

@laststrokecounts

@rowgearuk

@thomasclark.gb

@piotrgggolawski