Tarrant sets his sights on U23 squad

Feb 11 2009 Staines News

Shepperton rowing star Matthew Tarrant hopes his success at the Australian Youth Olympic Festival can catapult him into Britain's U23 squad, writes Jacob Murtagh.

The 18-year-old recently returned from Sydney with a gold and silver from the men's fours and men's pairs respectively.

But the Oxford Brookes University student is now too old for the junior system, and is confident of making the cut in Boston with partner Kieran Emery this weekend.

He said: "The U23 squad is the next step for me. I believe I'm in with a chance. My success in Australia has definitely given me a leg up.

"It was probably one of the highlights of my career so far. Everything was spot on."

Tarrant, who also rows for Walton, juggles his Construction Management studies with a gruelling six-day training schedule.

And while most budding rowers list Sir Steve Redgrave and Matthew Pinsent as their biggest inspirations, it's Andy Triggs-Hodge, Molesey Boat Club's gold-medal winning Olympian, who he wants to emulate.

He added: "Obviously I look up to Steve and Matt, but I've never even spoken to them. The closest I've come is seeing them at dinners.

"Andy has given me great advice, and I would love to follow in his footsteps."

Keep up to date with the news. Sign up for News Alerts

Have your say on the latest news and sport in our Forums

Site Tools