Last Stroke Counts

In this episode of Last Stroke Counts, we're pleased to host Matthew Tarrant, a double Olympian, 4 times World Champion and founder of RowElite who's now steering the ship of Saudi Arabia's rowing as Head Coach and Performance Director. We explore the twists and turns of Matthew’s rich and successful international rowing career, giving insights into training, recovery and mindset which...

In the latest episode of Last Stroke Counts, we delve into the thrills of the preseason, the intricacies of rowing language, the ins and outs of GB trials and the share stories about the legendary Hansa Cup.  From recent adventures to the challenges of the sport, this episode captures the chat & banter all in true rowing spirit. We also challenge you to see if you can top our fantasy rowing li...

In this episode of Last Stroke Counts, we are joined by Zoe de Toledo - an Olympic silver medallist, former GB Rowing Team cox, Oxford Blue and Leander Club member. From coxing the challenging waters of the Boat Race in 2012 to her memorable time steering for GB in Rio 2016, Zoe provides invaluable insights into the unique role of a cox in top-tier competitions. Beyond the waters, she shares her r...

In this episode of Last Stroke Counts, we sit down for a chat with Olympic silver medallist, a triple Olympian, remarkable member of the GB Rowing Team, and an integral part of the Leander Club - Vicky Thornley. Vicky offers an intimate look into her rowing journey, emphasising her commitment, drive, and the mental tenacity required to master the art of single sculling.  From the swift transition...

In this episode of Last Stroke Counts, we are privileged to host Tim Foster, an Olympic gold and bronze medalist, multiple World Champion, Henley Royal Regatta winner, and a star of the legendary Sydney four crew.  A true inspiration and celebrity within the sport, Tim is known for his intellect, wit, and unbreakable spirit that ultimately led him to Olympic glory. He shares his incredible journey...

In this special episode of Last Stroke Counts, we sit down for a conversation with double Olympic medallist, triple World Champion and rowing titan - Alex Partridge. Navigating through his accomplished career and experiences with some of the biggest names in rowing, Alex throws light on the dynamics of elite competition, the relentless pursuit of excellence, and the fortitude it takes to overcome...

In this episode of Last Stroke Counts, we're excited to host Emma Dyke, an accomplished rower from New Zealand. She’s a World Champion, Olympic Silver medalist, winner of the prestigious Henley Royal Regatta and has been a formidable force in the New Zealand, Rowing Team. She’s elevated from competing as a junior to stroking New Zealand’s Women’s 8+ in Rio in 4 years. Starting her Olympic jour...

In this episode of Last Stroke Counts, we sit down with a seasoned international cox, an Olympic Bronze medallist, multiple World & European Championship winner, and Coastal World Rowing Champion Henry Fieldman, currently leading the GB Women's 8+ into Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Henry candidly shares his experiences from his career, from winning U23 World Championship medal to being a Cambr...

In this episode of Last Stroke Counts, we sit down with an Olympic silver medallist, double Olympian, winner of the Youth Olympics, World Championship medallist, 9 times back-to-back Henley Royal Regatta winner, former Leander Club captain and a legend of the sport - Jack Beaumont. Jack talks us through his rowing career, highlighting his training habits, mindset, and what it took to be a top comp...

In this episode of Last Stroke Counts, we take a step back to reflect on our journey so far. After hosting 15 conversations and meeting some truly inspiring figures in the rowing world, we're taking this opportunity to share what we've learned and where we're heading next. This episode is an introspective look back at our favourite moments, the surprises we've encountered, and the...

In this episode of Last Stroke Counts, we sit down with Rory Cruickshank, owner of the UK's leading rowing media company, AllMarkOne. Rory shares his journey from being a junior international cox, setting a BUCS course record with Oxford Brookes, to running an incredibly successful media business from the age of 15.  As one of the UK's most influential and recognisable brands in rowing, Ro...

In this episode of Last Stroke Counts, we're pleased to welcome the influential and seasoned figure in rowing, who’s coached and led multiple crews to numerous Henley Royal Regatta victories and international medals, Ben Lewis. He joins us to unpack the secrets of transforming pressure into success, both within rowing and life. With his extensive experience as an athlete and coach at Britain&#...

In this episode of Last Stroke Counts, we're delighted to welcome back Leander Club’s former vice captain, multiple Henley Women’s and Henley Royal Regatta winner Susie Dear, for a deep dive into the magic of these prestigious events. Drawing from her experience and many victories, Susie gives us an insider's look into the allure and atmosphere of the Henley races. She unpacks the tactics,...

In this episode of Last Stroke Counts, we open the floor to your questions and delve into a range of topics central to the spirit of rowing. From the nuanced skill of coxing, the fulfilling journey to becoming a coach, to the heart-pounding thrill of our favourite races - no question is left unexplored. As we relive unforgettable races, share light-hearted anecdotes and talk about our dream guests...

In this epic episode of Last Stroke Counts, we're privileged to sit down with a titan of rowing, double Olympian, World Championship medallist, and Leander Club captain, John Collins. As a seasoned pillar of GB sculling, John offers a deeply introspective insight into the world of elite rowing, the pursuit of excellence, and the resilience it takes to overcome challenges at the highest level o...

In this episode of Last Stroke Counts, we sit down with Kara Wirt, the force behind Yoga For Rowers, who has transformed her passion for rowing into a career dedicated to injury prevention and recovery for rowers. A former rower, coach, and cox, Kara has honed her deep understanding of the sport over the past two decades, now specialising in yoga practices specifically designed to complement and e...

In this episode of Last Stroke Counts, we're excited to have Rory Copus, a renowned coach with a wealth of experience currently leading Wolfson College and Abingdon School. He is a Henley Royal Regatta winner with Oxford Brookes, former GB international cox and a passionate advocate for the sport. Rory's knowledge of the sport shines through as he dives deep into the exciting world of Bump...

In this episode of Last Stroke Counts, we're thrilled to chat with The People's Champion, Dave Bell. A Henley Royal Regatta winner, Boat Race winner with Cambridge, and a dedicated club rower, Dave's journey in the sport is both fascinating and inspiring. Dave shares his insights into the importance of continuous learning and never giving up in rowing, regardless of age or level. He di...

In this episode of Last Stroke Counts, we explore the often-overlooked power of fun in rowing and how it can enhance performance at all levels of the sport. We discuss the importance of enjoying the process, embracing camaraderie, and fostering a positive team atmosphere. Drawing on our experiences and insights from elite rowers, we highlight how having fun during training and competitions can lea...

In this episode of Last Stroke Counts, we delve into the essential components of making a successful race day. We share top tips for nutrition, teamwork, and timings, drawing from our collective experiences to help you prepare for and excel on race day. We discuss the importance of proper nutrition and the ideal timing of meals to fuel your performance, as well as the power of strong teamwork, cre...

In this episode of Last Stroke Counts, we're delighted to have Susie Dear, a World Cup medalist, multiple Henley Royal Regatta winner, and former Leander Club vice-captain, to discuss overcoming adversity, injuries, and setbacks in the world of rowing. With her wealth of experience, Susie shares her journey through challenges and triumphs, offering insights into the mental and physical resilie...

In this episode of Last Stroke Counts, we're thrilled to welcome a World Champion, World Record holder and multiple Henley Royal Regatta winner, the GB Rowing Team’s cox and coach Morgan Baynham-Williams, to discuss the winning habits that have propelled her to the top. Drawing on her extensive experience, Morgan reveals the habits and ways of thinking that have contributed to her incredible succe...

In this episode of Last Stroke Counts, join us for a little Touring Q&A as we discuss coxing hacks, pre-race rituals, and shifting systems in rowing. We dive deep on what it takes to be a great cox. You will learn about effective communication, boat control, and race strategy which can enhance your performance. We explore pre-race rituals used by rowers and outline things which you should avoi...

In this episode of Last Stroke Counts, we're excited to share our motivations behind starting the podcast, give a sneak peek into the topics we'll be covering, and offer a brief background on your hosts. Join us as we discuss the key reasons that led us to create Last Stroke Counts. We believe in the power of personal stories to inspire, motivate, and educate our listeners, and we aim to b...

In this episode of Last Stroke Counts, we're joined by former Oxford Blues rower and World U23 Champion, Joshua Bowesman-Jones, to dissect the 2023 Boat Race between Oxford and Cambridge. With Joshua's experience in the event, we delve deep into the race strategy, key moments, and what set the two teams apart this year. We also discuss the rigorous training and mental preparation required...