Waddell will not be defending his Olympic title

New Zealand’s Olympic Gold medal champion, Rob Waddell, has confirmed he will not be defending his single scull Olympic crown in Athens.

Waddell, who has not rowed since his magnificent gold medal victory at the 2000 Sydney Olympics, says that to return to the peak fitness level he achieved in Sydney is not possible in the timeframe remaining prior to the final Olympic qualifying regatta in Lucerne next June.

“This is a matter that I have given a great deal of time and thought. My decision was made a number of months ago. However, I wanted to make an announcement when I was certain of my next commitment, to avoid ongoing speculation. Unfortunately this is still unknown, but I have definitely ruled out a comeback to rowing at Athens,” says Waddell.

Following the America’s Cup as part of team New Zealand, he said: “In reality I would have needed to have been back in the boat six months ago if I was to give Athens a serious shot. This has not been possible given my desire to take a break after the America’s Cup campaign earlier in the year.”

He has supported his wife, Sonia, in her successful quest to qualify a single sculls boat for the Athens Olympics. “It is important that I am now able to continue to support Sonia’s selection bid for Athens,” says 28-year-old Waddell.

The 6’6″ Rowing icon will not be lost to New Zealand Rowing altogether. Waddell will continue to be involved with the sport as a Rowing Ambassador.

“Rowing New Zealand fully understands and supports Rob’s decision. Rob is the ultimate high end athlete and understandably would not compete without anything less than the optimum preparation,” says Rowing New Zealand’s Chief Executive Officer Craig Ross.

“Rowing New Zealand is delighted that Rob has agreed to accept a role as a Rowing Ambassador. As a mentor and talent identification resource for the huge pool of young rowers coming through our development and school programmes, we couldn’t wish for a better role model than Rob Waddell,” concluded Ross.