13 Dec 2013
Matthew TARRANT Interview
Rising Star – December 2013
In front of a cheering home audience Great Britain’s Matthew Tarrant won a silver medal in the men’s four at the 2013 World Cup in Eton Dorney. His success began in 2008 when he took home a silver medal from the World Rowing Junior Championships. Two years later it was a bronze at the Under 23 Championships, then another. Finally, in his last year at the under 23 level, Tarrant took home the gold medal in the men’s pair.
Studying construction management at Oxford Brooks University, Tarrant spent his early years trying to balance rowing and studying which he says was “tough going.” Since graduating in 2012, he now devotes his full attention to rowing and is looking straight ahead to the 2016 Olympics.
I get annoyed when… I doubt myself and feel I can’t do something.
Scull or sweep? Sweep is the only way to go
On the erg, I listen to… a mixture of rock to hip hop. Depends what session the coach has planned.
My non-rowing friends think I’m… boring as I tend not to drink and very rarely stay out late.
My favourite boat to row is… the pair. There is something unique and very rewarding about making a pair go quickly.
I’m most relaxed when… I’m in control of a situation.
Who would you most like to row in a crew with? I’m not fussed. I know the guys I train with all put in 100% every day and I fully back any partner in paired with.
I row because… I’m super competitive and love tough racing.
My favourite food is… a big old steak.
In 10 years time… I will be Olympic Champion
What motivates you? I’m driven by the feeling that I haven’t reached my full potential and I really want to see how successful I can become.
What are your future plans for rowing? Everything is focused on Rio and if I still have the same drive as I do now I will surely push on further.