Kiwi rowing gold medallist trials for TNZ

Rob Waddell is aiming for the grinder's role with Team New Zealand, writes Andy Rice

Olympic rowing gold medallist Rob Waddell is trialling for the grinder's position on Team New Zealand, according to a report in the New Zealand Herald.
The kiwi sculler is considering taking a break from rowing for a while and aiming for America's Cup glory instead. He spent four days sailing on board the Black Magic boats just before Christmas.

Waddell commented: "My long term goal is still Athens [the 2004 Olympics]. But now I'm looking at what could help that, what could fit in with it. The whole thing is new to me - it was so interesting, like a whole new language."

Waddell, who has done some sailing in his youth, was full of admiration for the regular crew: "They are a great bunch of guys. It blew me away how everyone was so determined."

Team NZ said no decision had been made on the grinding position - the last vacant spot on the sailing crew. But they confirmed the job would not necessarily go to an experienced yachtsman, and they were looking at the possibility of training an elite athlete for the physically demanding job.

Perhaps Steve Redgrave should step up for the grinding job on the British America's Cup challenge, if it happens of course.