Waddell sets Rowing New Zealand abuzz

It all began as a rumour that Sydney 2000 Olympic gold medallist in the men’s single, Rob Waddell of New Zealand, was back training in his single.

Waddell kept silent about his plans saying he simply enjoyed getting out in the single. This last weekend Waddell went up against fellow New Zealander and three-time reigning World Champion in the men’s single, Mahe Drysdale. Waddell won.

In a mid-season local regatta that attracted 960 crews and a crowd of thousands, New Zealand rowing fans were captivated as they watched the final of the men’s single. World Champion for 2007 in the men’s four Eric Murray led the way. Then last year’s under 23 World Champion Nathan Cohen took over. Waddell and Drysdale, going through the 1000m mark then started to dominate.

With about 600m left, Waddell changed gear and pulled away from Drysdale. Drysdale had no answer. In the tail wind conditions Waddell finished just three seconds outside of the World Best Time, owned by Drysdale.

The two single scullers then joined together to race in the men’s quad with Waddell also racing in a double with Cohen.

Waddell’s return to rowing has also been marked by an unofficial world record on the indoor rowing machine. Earlier this month over a 5,000m distance Waddell went under 15 minutes finishing in a time of 14:58.03. At the same trials, Drysdale held his own finishing in a personal best time of 15:11.

Waddell retired from rowing following the 2000 Olympics. The two metre tall athlete then dabbled in high level rugby before taking up a position with Team New Zealand to defend yachting’s prestigious America’s Cup. Waddell stayed with Team New Zealand through the 2007 America’s Cup race earlier this year.

As a grinder on the yacht, Waddell changed his physique from a lean single sculler to a heavier, more muscular build. Back with rowing Waddell has shed 20kg to return to rowing fitness. He is currently just 2kg heavier than his Sydney Olympic weight.

Waddell has now declared his intentions to row at Beijing.

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