Mercantile Radio

Mercantile Rowing Club
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Mercantile Radio features stories, insights and voices from the heart of Rowing, hosted by Olympic Gold Medallist Drew Ginn OAM. Sponsored by Choice Capital and 776BC.

  1. A Pioneer, an Olympian, a Coach, and the Mother of Olympic Gold with Sue Chapman-Popa - Episode 42, Part 1: Breaking Barriers

    2d ago

    A Pioneer, an Olympian, a Coach, and the Mother of Olympic Gold with Sue Chapman-Popa - Episode 42, Part 1: Breaking Barriers

    Before Australian women stood on Olympic podiums, there were pioneers willing to challenge convention. In Part 1 of this special two-part conversation, Drew Ginn OAM sits down with Olympic bronze medallist Sue Chapman-Popa to revisit one of the defining moments in Australian rowing history: the 1984 Los Angeles Olympic Games. From learning to row at Lauriston in 1978, when girls on the Yarra were still a novelty, to becoming part of Australia's first-ever Olympic medal-winning women's crew, Sue shares an extraordinary story of determination, innovation and resilience. Who is Sue Chapman-Popa? Sue Chapman Popa is one of the pioneers of Australian women's rowing. She won Olympic Bronze in the Women's Coxed Four at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympic Games, becoming part of the first Australian women's crew to win an Olympic rowing medal. At a time when women's rowing was still finding its place, Sue helped break barriers, challenge perceptions and build pathways that continue to shape the sport today. Beyond her own career, Sue has spent decades coaching, mentoring and introducing thousands of people to rowing while also supporting her daughter Rosie Popa's journey to Olympic Gold in Tokyo 2020. Why This Conversation Matters 1. The Women Who Changed Australian Rowing Sue reflects on entering a sport where women were still proving they belonged and how a small group of athletes helped transform Australian rowing forever. 2. The Physiology of Winning What did it take to race an Olympic 1000 metres? Sue explains breathing strategies, oxygen debt, pain management and why elite athletes learn to become comfortable being uncomfortable. 3. Building an Olympic Crew Selection stories, tiny squads, innovative strength training and the coaches who believed women could compete on the world stage. 4. Creating Opportunity From citizenship challenges to one of the first corporate sponsorships in Australian women's rowing, this is a story of determination both on and off the water. Episode Highlights • Australia's first Olympic medal in women's rowing • The famous three-boat photo finish at Lake Casitas • Learning to row at Lauriston • Women lifting weights in the early 1980s • Building an Olympic crew from a developing program • The philosophy of pioneering and challenging convention You Can Quote Us On That "I've always been kind of pioneering. I'm not afraid of trying new things." "Once you're in pain, it doesn't get any worse." "He thought every day after that was a bonus." Key Takeaways • Progress starts with people willing to challenge convention. • Elite performance comes from embracing discomfort. • Great sporting cultures are built by courageous pioneers. • Today's opportunities exist because previous generations created them. Hosted by: Drew Ginn OAM Guest: Sue Chapman-Popa Produced by: Nicholas Finster Sponsored by Choice Capital and 776BC

    1h 15m
  2. Martin Cross: Olympic Gold, Henley & A Life in Rowing - Episode 41

    Jun 21

    Martin Cross: Olympic Gold, Henley & A Life in Rowing - Episode 41

    Few people have experienced rowing from as many perspectives as Martin Cross. Olympic Champion. World Championship medallist. Coach. Author. Broadcaster. Storyteller. In this episode of Mercantile Radio, Drew Ginn OAM sits down with one of rowing's most respected voices to explore a lifetime in the sport. From winning Olympic Gold in the Coxed Four at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympic Games to becoming one of the world's leading rowing commentators, Martin shares the lessons, challenges and moments that have shaped an extraordinary journey. The conversation travels from Olympic glory and selection controversies to coaching, commentary, athlete development and the future of the sport. It is a masterclass in performance, perspective and passion for rowing. Who is Martin Cross? Martin Cross MBE is an Olympic Gold Medallist who represented Great Britain across four Olympic Games. He was a member of the British Men's Coxed Four that captured Gold at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics, ending a 36-year drought for British Olympic rowing gold medals. Beyond his athletic career, Martin has become one of the sport's most recognised commentators, providing expert analysis for World Rowing, the Olympic Games and major international regattas around the world. Today he remains deeply connected to rowing through coaching, writing, broadcasting and mentoring athletes and coaches globally. Why This Conversation Matters 1. Olympic Success Doesn't Solve Everything Martin reflects candidly on the reality of winning Olympic Gold and the surprising emotional complexity that followed. His story reminds us that sporting success and personal fulfilment are not always the same thing. 2. Great Crews Are Built Through Trust The journey to Olympic Gold was far from straightforward. Selection disputes, differing opinions and strong personalities all shaped the famous British Coxed Four. The conversation provides a fascinating insight into how elite crews are formed and the importance of trusting a shared vision. 3. The Love of Rowing Lasts a Lifetime From athlete to coach, commentator and mentor, Martin describes rowing as more than a sport—it is a lifelong connection to people, challenge, nature and personal growth. 4. Great Commentary Tells Human Stories Listeners gain a rare insight into what happens behind the microphone. Martin explains how the best commentary comes from understanding athletes, talking with coaches and finding the stories that bring racing to life. 5. The Future of Rowing Is Bright From Henley Royal Regatta to World Championships, Martin shares his excitement for the next generation of athletes and the increasing professionalism, visibility and competitiveness of the sport worldwide. You can quote us on that! "The sport has become part of me." "Rowing is about connection." "The best races are the ones that leave you speechless." "You can never stop learning in rowing." "Henley is on the bucket list of rowers around the world." "The whole thing is almost impossible to describe—it's a way of life." Hosted by Drew Ginn OAM Guest: Martin Cross MBE Produced by Nicholas Finster Sponsored by Choice Capital and 776BC Presented by Mercantile Rowing Club

    1h 32m
  3. Five Paralympics, Countless Lessons, One Relentless Pursuit: Erik Horrie - Episode 40

    Jun 14

    Five Paralympics, Countless Lessons, One Relentless Pursuit: Erik Horrie - Episode 40

    Few athletes embody resilience and longevity quite like Erik Horrie OAM PLY. A five-time Paralympian, multiple World Champion and one of Australia's most successful para-rowers, Erik has spent more than a decade redefining what is possible in elite sport. In this episode of Mercantile Radio, Erik joins Drew Ginn for a candid conversation about the lessons learned across a remarkable career. From overcoming a challenging childhood and life-changing spinal injury to becoming one of the dominant athletes in para-rowing, Erik shares the mindset, relationships and relentless curiosity that have kept him competing at the highest level. Who is Erik Horrie? Erik Horrie is one of Australia's most successful para-rowers and a pioneer of international para-rowing. Following a spinal cord injury that left him paraplegic, Erik discovered rowing and rapidly rose through the ranks to become a multiple World Champion and Paralympic medallist. Since making his international debut, he has represented Australia at five Paralympic Games and has consistently been among the world's leading PR1 men's single scull athletes. Known for his resilience, technical innovation and relentless pursuit of improvement, Erik has helped redefine what is possible in para-rowing. Beyond his achievements on the water, he is respected for his leadership, advocacy for athletes with disabilities, and his willingness to share the lessons he has learned through sport, adversity and life. Why is this conversation important? The conversation explores the evolution of para-rowing, the importance of trust between athlete and coach, the pursuit of marginal gains, and the realities of competing across multiple Paralympic campaigns. Erik reflects on unforgettable moments from London, Rio, Tokyo and Paris, his long partnership with coach JB, and why he continues to search for new ways to improve as he looks toward Los Angeles 2028. This is a story of perseverance, adaptability and finding purpose through sport. 1. Resilience Can Be Built Through Adversity Erik's journey demonstrates that life's greatest challenges do not have to define a person's future. From a difficult childhood and a life-changing spinal injury to becoming a Paralympic medallist and World Champion, Erik shows how adversity can be transformed into purpose, determination and success. His story provides a powerful reminder that resilience is not something people are born with—it is developed through persistence, mindset and the willingness to keep moving forward. 2. Excellence Requires Continuous Learning and Adaptation Despite competing at the highest level for more than two decades, Erik continues to search for ways to improve. The conversation highlights the importance of listening, embracing change, trusting coaches and being willing to evolve as an athlete and person. His approach demonstrates that long-term success is not about doing the same thing forever, but about constantly learning, adapting and refining your craft. 3. Success Is Built Through Relationships and Community Throughout the discussion, Erik repeatedly acknowledges the coaches, volunteers, teammates, support staff and family members who have contributed to his journey. His experiences reinforce the idea that while sporting achievements may appear individual, they are often the result of a strong support network. The conversation serves as a reminder that great outcomes are rarely achieved alone and that investing in relationships is critical to sustained success. You can quote us on that! “The biggest thing is being willing to change." "I'm the person that shapes the picture frame of my life." "What happened to me doesn't define me." "The volunteers who helped me get into a boat are the reason I'm here today." "You never fully understand rowing. You're always learning." "The recovery is just as important as the work." Guests: Erik Horrie OAM PLY Host: Drew Ginn OAM Produced by: Nicholas Finster Sponsored by Choice Capital & 776BC

    1h 52m
  4. Cam Wurf: Three Sports, One Relentless Pursuit - Rowing, the Peloton, and the Hunt for Kona - Episode 39

    Jun 7

    Cam Wurf: Three Sports, One Relentless Pursuit - Rowing, the Peloton, and the Hunt for Kona - Episode 39

    In this episode of Mercantile Radio, Drew sits down with one of Australia's most remarkable endurance athletes, Cam Wurf. From representing Australia in the Athens Olympic rowing eight, to riding Grand Tours with some of cycling's biggest names, and now competing at the highest level of Ironman triathlon, Cam reflects on a career defined by reinvention, resilience and relentless curiosity. Who is Cam Wurf? Cam Wurf is one of Australia's most accomplished endurance athletes, having competed at the highest level in three different sports. He represented Australia in rowing at the 2004 Athens Olympic Games, where he was a member of the Australian Men's lightweight double scull. Originally from Tasmania, Wurf developed his athletic foundation through rowing, learning the discipline, resilience and work ethic that would underpin his future success. Following his rowing career, Wurf transitioned to professional cycling, racing Grand Tours with some of the world's leading teams, including Cannondale-Liquigas and Ineos Grenadiers. He later reinvented himself again as a professional Ironman triathlete, becoming one of the sport's leading competitors and a contender at the Ironman World Championships in Kona. His unique journey across rowing, cycling and triathlon has made him one of the most versatile and respected endurance athletes in the world. Why is this conversation important? ​ Rowing Builds More Than AthletesCam credits rowing as the foundation for every success that followed. The discipline, teamwork and resilience developed in the boat translated directly into elite cycling and triathlon. ​ Optimism Can Be TrainedElite performance is not about avoiding setbacks but learning how to respond when things go wrong. Cam's approach is to continually adapt and keep moving forward. ​ Recovery Is a Competitive AdvantageLooking back, Cam believes he underestimated the value of rest during his rowing career. Today, recovery is a deliberate and essential component of his preparation. ​ Excellence Is ContagiousFrom Stephen Hawkins and James Tomkins to Chris Froome and Jan Frodeno, Cam's career demonstrates the power of learning from world-class people and environments. ​ Reinvention Is PossibleOlympian. Professional cyclist. Ironman contender. At 42, Cam continues to pursue new challenges and proves that athletic careers do not have to follow a traditional path. You can quote us on that! "Rowing set me up to deal with everything I've faced since." "Good people kind of find good people. You sort out the best of the best." "No one can go in your lane." "It's all about the volume." Listen Now A conversation about rowing, cycling, triathlon, resilience, optimism, family and the lifelong pursuit of excellence. Whether you're an athlete, coach, parent or sports enthusiast, Cam Wurf's story offers valuable lessons on performance, reinvention and showing up when it matters most. Guest: Cam Wurf OLY Host: Drew Ginn OAM Produced by: Nicholas Finster Sponsored by Choice Capital & 776BC

    1h 51m
  5. Seville World Cup Review with Drew Ginn, Noel Donaldson and David Colvin - Episode 38

    Jun 5

    Seville World Cup Review with Drew Ginn, Noel Donaldson and David Colvin - Episode 38

    The 2026 international rowing season is officially underway, and what a start it was. Drew Ginn sits down with two of rowing’s most respected voices- Noel Donaldson and David “Chippa” Colvin - to unpack the opening World Cup of the season in Seville, Spain. Returning to the famed course for the first time in over two decades, the regatta delivered fast conditions, high-quality racing, and plenty of discussion points for athletes, coaches and rowing fans alike. Episode Highlights Seville Delivers a Fast Start to the Season The opening World Cup showed that crews are no longer easing into the international season. Across the board, athletes arrived ready to race, with many crews pushing 38–39 strokes per minute from the first heat. The standard of racing, weather conditions and organisation received high praise from all three commentators. Rhythm Still Wins Races Despite increasingly aggressive starts and high stroke rates, the crews that stood out most were those producing calm, controlled and rhythmical rowing. The Australian Women’s Eight, Australian Women’s Four, Great Britain’s Four and Oliver Zeidler’s single scull all demonstrated that efficiency remains a critical competitive advantage. Australian Women Continue to Impress The Australian Women’s Eight produced one of the standout performances of the regatta, showing composure under pressure and executing a measured race plan to secure victory. The Women’s Four also delivered a strong silver medal performance, highlighting the growing depth and confidence within the Australian women’s program. Oliver Zeidler’s Evolution One of the most fascinating stories from Seville was the continued development of German single sculler Oliver Zeidler. Working with coach Nick Lloyd, Zeidler appears to have evolved from a pure front-runner into a more complete racer, maintaining his trademark speed while rowing with greater composure through the middle stages of races. The Brutality of Modern Progression Systems The new progression format came under scrutiny, with top-two-plus-fastest qualifying systems creating little room for error. Equipment failures, poor draws or a single sub-standard race can now end a regatta campaign before it truly begins. The panel discusses the implications for athletes, coaches and the spectator experience. Looking Ahead to LA 2028 and Brisbane 2032 The discussion also explores: The proposed 1500m Olympic race distance for Los Angeles 2028.Ongoing concerns about the LA rowing venue.The debate surrounding the Brisbane 2032 rowing venue and athlete experience.The importance of maintaining fairness and integrity within Olympic competition.Henley Preparations Continue Closer to home, attention turns to Mercantile’s young crews preparing for Henley Royal Regatta. Strong erg performances, winter training and valuable international racing opportunities are all part of the build-up as athletes prepare to test themselves against some of the deepest club fields in the world. Key Takeaways International crews are arriving race-ready earlier than ever.The new progression system places greater importance on every race.Rhythm and efficiency remain decisive performance factors.Australia’s women continue to build momentum and confidence.Open-minded athletes continue to find opportunities for improvement, regardless of success.The 1500m future is coming, but qualification remains the immediate priority.Venue integrity and athlete experience must remain central to Olympic planning.US collegiate rowing continues to influence and strengthen world rowing standards.Listen Now Hosted by Drew Ginn OAM, this episode provides expert analysis of the opening World Cup of the season and valuable insights for athletes, coaches and rowing enthusiasts alike. Guests: Noel Donaldson ASM & David “Chippa” Colvin Host: Drew Ginn OAM Produced by: Nicholas Finster Sponsored by Mercantile Rowing Club | Choice Capital & 776BC

    59 min
  6. Inches Off Gold: Christian Ryan on the Agony of Silver and the Future of Rowing - Episode 37

    Jun 1

    Inches Off Gold: Christian Ryan on the Agony of Silver and the Future of Rowing - Episode 37

    What does it feel like to execute a race that is 99.9% perfect, only to miss out on Olympic Gold by less than half a second? In this episode of Mercantile Radio, we sit down with Sydney 2000 Silver medalist Christian Ryan to uncover the brutal margins, hidden psychology, and off-water alchemy of elite big-boat racing. From his roots in regional Victoria to anchoring the historic 1998 U23 World Champion Eight, Christian strips away the glamour of the podium to reveal the raw reality of Olympic heartbreak—including the hours spent sitting silently in a changeroom shower wondering what comes next. Now a highly successful coach and corporate leader, Christian breaks down how to manage nine distinct personalities, how he used historical visualization to break a legendary King's Cup drought, and why rowing desperately needs a Drive to Survive-style overhaul to survive. Whether you are a coach looking for a tactical edge or an athlete chasing those final fractions of a second, this masterclass on the ultimate team sport will change the way you look at a racing lane forever. Who is Christian Ryan? Christian Ryan is an elite Australian former rower and an Olympic Silver medalist. Born in Warrnambool, Victoria, Ryan rose through the ranks of Victorian rowing, famously securing a gold medal at the 1998 World Rowing U23 Championships in the Men's Eight before moving into the senior national squad. The absolute pinnacle of his international rowing career came at the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games, where he sat in the crucial bow seat of the Australian Men's Eight. Alongside legendary teammates, Ryan pushed the powerhouse Great Britain crew to the absolute limit, capturing a dramatic Silver medal in front of a home crowd by a mere 0.8 seconds. Beyond his international achievements, he is a multiple King's Cup winner for Victoria and a highly respected figure across the Australian sports and business landscapes. Why This Conversation is Important? This episode explores the immense pressure of home soil Olympics, the razor-thin margins of elite rowing, and the transition from world class athlete to professional success. The Anatomy of an Olympic Final: Ryan breaks down the strategic and psychological reality of the Sydney 2000 final, what happens when a race plan dictates a slow start, the mental fortitude required to launch a late sprint, and how it feels to miss out on Olympic Gold by less than a second.The Dynamics of the Bow Seat: As the bowman of the Australian Eight, Christian shares unique insights into the technical precision, agility, and unique leadership required to set the balance and steer the internal rhythm of a 24-foot powerhouse boat.A Dual-Sport Engine: The conversation highlights Ryan's diverse athletic background. He spent time training under Mick Malthouse at the Collingwood Football Club and excelled in VFL and A-grade amateur football, offering listeners a rare look at how elite rowing fitness translates across different Australian sporting codes. Translating High-Performance to Business: Transitioning from the water to corporate leadership, Ryan discusses how the hard work, structure, and accountability learned in the boat house directly inform his role as a Managing Director and Principal in wealth management.You can quote us on that! "It was 99.9% right. We had to go low 5:32 to win. We were 5:32.6 or 5:32.8. You’re only marginally off your best row. That half-second edge GB had over the first thousand metres was what we couldn’t buy back." "It’s not actually what you think, it’s how you think. Once you unlock that, it’s amazing what you start to do in the sport." "You need power on land, but athleticism on water. We lifted heavy in the gym but rowed light—hamstrings into the finish, speed away from the handle, ease through the middle." Hosted by Drew Ginn OAM Guest Christian Ryan Produced by Nicholas Finster Sponsored by Choice Capital & 776BC

    1h 45m
  7. The "Melbourne Cup on Water" - The Row to the Henley Royal Regatta - Episode 36

    May 25

    The "Melbourne Cup on Water" - The Row to the Henley Royal Regatta - Episode 36

    In this episode of Mercantile Radio, we sit down with Mercantile’s rising young rowers - Gabi Price, Georgie “G” Campbell, and Jake Polkinghorne - ahead of their international campaign. Drawn from Mercs’ youth, U21/U23 and senior squads, the group will race at the Holland Beker before taking on the Henley Royal Regatta. The trio unpack the realities of Scott Rowe’s brutal training program, the technical changes being refined under Annabelle Eaton, and the mentors who shaped their rowing journeys. The conversation also explores the mental side of elite sport — handling pain, adapting within a crew, and why saying your goals out loud matters. Who are Jake, Gabi and Georgia? Jake Polkinghorne St Pat’s College Ballarat (Rowed 1st IV in 2021, 2nd at Head of the Lake, won Schoolboy 4+ at Nationals).The Journey: After a year away from rowing, Jake joined Mercantile in 2022/23, earning selection in the Victoria U21 8+ and making his Henley debut in the Britannia Coxed Four. Now in his first Senior A season, he has transitioned into sculling as his primary discipline.The Campaign: Sitting in the pivotal 7-seat of the Men's Thames 8 as the oldest athlete on board.Gabi Price Background: Carey Grammar (Class of 2024).The Journey: Now in her second season at Mercantile, Gabi stroked the club to victory in both the U21 W4+ and U21 W8+ at the 2026 Nationals after a gruelling winter block. Alongside Lucy Gillon and Eloise Adem (“The 3 Amigos”), she also helped guide the U21 women through a turbulent coaching period before stabilising under Rhett Spiller.The Campaign: Bringing her championship-winning rhythm to the Women's Wargrave 8.Georgia “G” Campbell Background: Originally from Brisbane; two-time 1st VIII rower at St Margaret’s (winning her Head of the River).The Journey: Georgia rowed under Scott Rowe at Kand Rowing Club before following him to Melbourne to pursue sculling after her pair partner’s season-ending injury. She narrowly missed U23 World Championship selection and recently debuted for Queensland in the Queen’s Cup, finishing 2nd.The Campaign: Traded the single for a seat in the highly competitive Women's Wargrave 8. Why Is This Conversation Important? Taking opportunities to develop each athletes learning outside Australia is a vital component of the Mercantile Rowing Program. Preparing for and racing at the Henley Royal Regatta or the Head of the Charles, provides these important development pathways. Our young athletes take us on this journey. Key Insights From the Episode Say it out loud: Keeping ambitions to yourself feels safe, but naming your goals out loud allows others to help you get there; and holds you accountable when motivation dips.Know your "why": Purpose is what gets you out of bed for freezing Melbourne winter mornings. Often, you keep pushing simply because you promised your teammates you would.Confidence is coachable: Self-belief isn't just for Olympians. Gabi credits coach Jim Portus with building her confidence through deliberate pre-race rituals and constant reconnection to her goals.The power of the club shed: The elite pathway stays visible because of the Mercantile community. Senior athletes returning to the shed, older girls raising the standards, and the collective energy around group erg sessions make the brutal work genuinely enjoyable.The Campaign at a Glance & How to Support The crews depart Australia in mid-June. They will kick off their campaign at the Holland Beker (20–21 June) on the Bosbaan, racing an eight and two straight fours, before heading to the UK for Henley, under the guidance of women's coach Annabelle Eaton and Scott Rowe. How to help them get there: The athletes are fundraising to cover travel, equipment, and accommodation expenses. All donations are fully tax-deductible via the Australian Sports Foundation (ASF). Donate Here: https://asf.org.au/campaigns/mercantile-rowing-club/2026-mercantilerc-henley-campaign

    1h 17m
  8. Stay in Your Lane: How Olaf Tufte Built Two Olympic Golds - Episode 35

    May 17

    Stay in Your Lane: How Olaf Tufte Built Two Olympic Golds - Episode 35

    What does it actually take to survive the most brutal race in the world? In this episode of Mercantile Radio, we sit down with Norway’s most decorated rower, two-time Olympic Single Scull Champion Olaf Tufte. Before he ever touched an oar, Tufte built an unbreakable engine dragging timber on a Norwegian farm and racing motocross—entering the sport late with "10,000 hours" already in his body. In this masterclass of raw grit and radical self-honesty, Olaf takes us inside the terrifying middle 1000m of the Athens final, explains why he throws away heart rate monitors when coaching, and shares the kitchen-table intervention that saved his career. If you want to learn how to ignore the noise, build an elite mindset, and master the art of "staying in your lane" when the pressure is at its absolute peak, you cannot afford to miss this conversation. Who is Olaf Tufte? Olaf Tufte is a legendary Norwegian rower and one of the most resilient, decorated athletes in the history of the sport. A four-time Olympic medalist, he captured back-to-back Olympic Gold medals in the Men's Single Scull at the Athens 2004 and Beijing 2008 Games. He later added a Silver (2000, Double Scull) and a Bronze (2016, Double Scull) to his historic tally. Before he ever touched an oar at age 16, Tufte built an engine of pure grit working on his family farm in Norway and racing motocross. Known for his uncompromising physical toughness, massive aerobic capacity, and razor sharp mental approach, Tufte spent decades competing at the absolute pinnacle of elite rowing, retiring as an icon of longevity and athletic integrity Why This Conversation is Important? This episode is a masterclass in high performance psychology, training philosophy, and radical self-honesty. It is an essential listen for athletes, coaches, and leaders: The Psychology of Resiliency: Tufte reveals the exact mental frameworks required to survive "the dark room" of elite racing, such as the crucial middle 1000m of an Olympic final and how sticking to a personal process overrides the panic of a competitor moving ahead.Redefining "Athletic Foundation": He challenges the modern trend of hyper-specialized, data-driven youth training, proving how a childhood of manual farm labour ("10,000 hours in the body") and multi sport play creates a more robust, injury resistant athlete.Autonomy Over Data: In an era obsessed with wearable tech, Tufte presents a counter cultural argument for throwing away heart rate monitors. He emphasises teaching athletes to read their own bodies through intuitive markers, fatigue awareness, and raw feeling.The Power of Radical Feedback: His "kitchen-table reckoning" after a devastating London 2012 performance offers a profound lesson in humility. It demonstrates how surrounding yourself with people who will tell you the brutal truth is often the only way to rebuild after failure.You can Quote us on that! On the Athens Final: "Stay in your lane. Stick to your process. If you’re feeling tired, he has to be tired." On the Reality of Winning: "Even if I died crossing that finish line, I will hurry; I will come up fresh." On His Training Philosophy: "Raise your 80% as close to your 100 as possible. The average of your stroke has to be as good as possible." On Modern Tracking Data: "When I coach people, I tend to throw away the heart rate monitors. You’re supposed to train. Learn your body. Tell me what you feel." On Overcoming Failure Post-London 2012: "No one is going to decide when I’m going to quit. I quit when I decide to... I never gave up. I came back and proved everybody wrong. For me, that’s the biggest victory in rowing history." Hosted by Drew Ginn OAM Guest Olaf Tufte Produced by Nicholas Finster Sponsored by 776BC

    1h 14m
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
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About

Mercantile Radio features stories, insights and voices from the heart of Rowing, hosted by Olympic Gold Medallist Drew Ginn OAM. Sponsored by Choice Capital and 776BC.

Information

  • Creator
    Mercantile Rowing Club
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    43
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Mercantile Rowing Club
  • Show Website
    Mercantile Radio

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