In this episode of Last Stroke Counts, we sit down with John Ewans and Joe Edwards, the duo behind Active Tools which since 2002 has been at the forefront of developing technology, accessories, and products for the rowing community.

John and Joe guide us through their journey, highlighting the intricacies, challenges and breakthroughs in bringing tech to rowing. We discuss the crucial role of tech in monitoring performance, reducing injury risks and accelerating athlete development. We also reveal how their latest speed-coaches and oarlocks, loaded with plenty of user-friendly features are making data collection and telemetry more accessible than ever for rowers.

The duo also shares insights into their ongoing projects and visions for the future, shedding light on the intricate relationship between innovation and tradition in the sport and offering a glimpse into what the future holds for rowing.

So tune in & join us for a chat, as we dive into the fascinating world of rowing technology and discover how innovation can help not only improve performance but reshape the rowing experience, where enhanced by the power of technology every last stroke counts.

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In this episode of Last Stroke Counts, we are joined by the remarkable Imogen Grant who’s an Olympian plus a double World & European Champion and multiple Boat Race winner for the Light Blues. Outside of the sport, she’s a Cambridge alumna and a qualified doctor. Imogen's journey is a testament to her unparalleled dedication and talent in both academics and athletics.

Her story is nothing less than extraordinary, narrowly missing an Olympic medal by a mere 0.01 seconds in a heartbreaking race, she’s hoping to showcase her incredible speed and resilience at next year’s games. 

Known by some as the "Pocket Rocket" for her formidable prowess in lightweight rowing, we dive deep into her journey from learning to row at Cambridge to standing tall on the world stage whilst becoming a doctor.

We also discuss Imogen’s aggressive yet humbling approach to training and racing, and how she balances her rigorous sporting commitments with her academic pursuits. Her intelligence & grit, coupled with her athletic excellence makes her a role model and a beacon of inspiration for aspiring rowers and young athletes across the globe.

So, tune in & join us for a chat with Imogen Grant, as we delve into her pursuit of excellence, her aspirations and her mindset where every last stroke truly counts.

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In this episode of Last Stroke Counts, we're featuring Ben Wellburn, British Rowing Performance Development Coach, who has guided teams like Hereford Cathedral School from underdog status to consistent national contenders. At the helm, he has led his athletes to earning their first GB vests.

Ben's story is one of passion & innovation. In our conversation, Ben unpacks his coaching philosophy, infused with unique insights and the 'rowing sauce' that is stirring up the sport's traditional regimen.

Articulate and engaging, Ben brings a refreshing perspective to coaching with his blend of wit, wisdom, and intrigue. He encapsulates how a fresh approach can invigorate the repetitiveness of rowing, offering valuable lessons for up-and-coming coaches and seasoned athletes alike.

As we navigate Ben's journey and his ascent as one of rowing's most promising figures, listeners will discover his blueprint of breeding excellence and the joy of steering his athletes towards future Olympic glory. 

So, tune in & join us as we explore the anecdotes, laughter, and sage advice, highlighting how every last stroke counts, especially when guided by a fresh set of eyes.

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In this episode of Last Stroke Counts, we have the pleasure of speaking with Erin Kennedy, a current Paralympic & World Champion and World Record Holder in PR3 Mix4+. Not just a successful cox at the GB Rowing Team and Leander Club, Erin is also a former Oxford Blue, a mentor with WOX (The Winning Cox), and a recent survivor of breast cancer.

Her journey has been nothing short of remarkable. From leading her crews to victory to navigating her way through cancer treatment, Erin’s resilience and spirit are truly inspiring. We also delve into the unique challenges and rewards of coxing, sharing insights for coxes and rowers at all levels. Erin’s bubbly personality and wealth of experience shine through, making this a conversation filled with laughter, learning, and motivation.

As Erin sets her sights on the Paris 2024 Games, she’s also on a mission to spread awareness about breast cancer, emphasising the importance of self-checks and early detection. This episode is a must-listen, not just for those within the rowing community, but for anyone looking to be inspired by a story of fighting back, overcoming odds, and leading with positivity and strength.

So, join us and Erin Kennedy in this uplifting episode, as we explore the power of leading, winning, and overcoming in the world of rowing and beyond where every last stroke, and every challenge, counts.

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In this episode of "Last Stroke Counts," we are thrilled to welcome the freshly crowned World Champion in women's quad, Lola Anderson, who has her eyes set on the upcoming 2024 Paris Olympics. 

With an impressive collection of accolades, including victories at the Henley Royal Regatta, Wingfield Sculls, and topping the GB Trials in her single scull, Lola is a force to be reckoned with in the GB Rowing Team.

A proud alumna of Newcastle University, Lola reminisces about her time representing the Blue Star, shedding light on what makes that system so successful and highlighting the team spirit that defines the crews from Newcastle. 

Lola’s humility and eloquence shine throughout our conversation, making this episode a hidden treasure full of rowing and mindset gems!

Her heartfelt reflections provide an insider’s look into the makings of a champion, overcoming her back injury and serve as a source of inspiration for young, aspiring rowers worldwide.

So, grab your headphones, tune in & join us for a journey through the highs and lows, the victories and the challenges with one of rowing’s most promising stars, as Lola navigates her way towards the Olympic glory where every last stroke counts.

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In this episode of Last Stroke Counts, we dive deep with the co-founder of Feather & Square and three-time U23 World Champion - Miles Beeson. Having rowed at the prestigious Yale and with a collection of gold medals to his name, Miles offers a unique perspective on the rigours and rewards of elite rowing both in the UK and US. 

He sheds light on the ethos, discipline, and camaraderie instilled by legendary Steve Gladstone that underpin the massively successful system at Yale, and also what it truly takes to stand atop the world's podium not once, but thrice.

Miles also walks us through his journey of co-founding Feather & Square. From concept to creation, we learn about the motivations behind this innovative hand balm tailored for rowers and the day-to-day dance of managing a business alongside a full-time rowing routine.

Moreover, for those curious about how the skills, mindset and discipline from rowing can translate into business, Miles shares insights, tips, and experiences that underscore the seamless overlap between sports, entrepreneurship and working in sales.

So, tune in & join us for this chat with Miles Beeson, as we navigate the waters of top-tier rowing and business ventures where every last stroke truly counts.

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In the episode of Last Stroke Counts, we’re pleased to chat with Kieran Clark of Clark Performance Rowing who’s a renowned coach that has led numerous crews to victories at World Rowing Championships. Kieran now channels his vast expertise as an online coach, benefiting not just rowers but also people in the CrossFit community.

He provides a goldmine of insights on how to elevate performance, offering a deep understanding of the nuances of rowing and an outlook on pushing boundaries. 

As the landscape of rowing now undergoes significant shifts, Kieran offers his perspective on the new changes ushering into the sport. From practical advice to dissecting the philosophy of rowing, this episode is packed with tips and revelations that will improve your rowing and in turn - get you more free speed.

So, tune in and join us as we maximise performance, explore techniques and training strategies that make every last stroke count.

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In this episode of Last Stroke Counts, we have the privilege to chat with the Cambridge University Women's Chief Coach, Paddy Ryan. With over a decade of dedicated work at Cambridge, Paddy has not only led his squads to a remarkable clean sweep victory last year but has also ingrained a culture of excellence.

Paddy gives us an insider’s look into what goes into creating a winning machine as well as some strategies that helped Cambridge secure victory after victory in the recent years. 

We delve into how the integration of science and sport can significantly elevate performance, especially when understanding the nuances of women in sport and research about their bodies.

Moreover, we dive into Paddy's personal journey, exploring the philosophies, habits, and mantras that helped shape his incredibly successful career. 

He shares invaluable insights not just for those in the rowing community, but for anyone passionate about leadership, coaching, and success.

So, tune in & join us, as we uncover the stories, strategies, and philosophies of a coach who truly makes every last stroke count at Cambridge.

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In this episode of Last Stroke Counts, we connect with the creator of Edge Rowing, Jack Burns. Drawing on his experience rowing for the GB Rowing Team, Jack takes on coaching in the digital realm.

With Edge Rowing, he has transformed the game, empowering busy professionals and passionate rowers alike to improve their techniques, optimise their mindsets, and ultimately, secure more victories.

We also discuss the intricacies of running a business in the rowing world, shedding light on what it takes to be successful and sustain that baseline. Whether it's developing the right habits, emphasising the importance of the process, or helping rowers unlock their talent & potential, Jack has found his edge in the ability to help people become faster.

So, tune in and join us as we go through the experiences, anecdotes, and invaluable insights from a life immersed in rowing where you’ll discover how to find your own edge in a world where every last stroke truly counts.

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In this episode of Last Stroke Counts, we're pleased to chat with Alan Sinclair, an Olympian, current Director of Rowing at the University of St. Andrew's, Henley Royal Regatta winner, and a key member of the GB rowing team in the last decade.

Al shares profound insights into the secret sauce of longevity, facing adversities and developing resilience in the sport of rowing whilst enjoying the day-to-day process. 

He opens up about his first Olympiad, his trials and tribulations, and how having a strong mindset has been crucial when competing in the top international ranks.

Al also delves into life after rowing, taking us on a tour of his current role at St. Andrew's University, where he talks about the challenges and joys of coaching the next generation of rowers.

So, tune in and join us for a discussion with Al Sinclair, as we navigate through the waves of his career in a sport where every last stroke counts.

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