Katherine Grainger makes rowing comeback
Tuesday 23 September 2014 14:31, UK
Olympic gold medallist Katherine Grainger has returned to rowing after a two-year absence, with a view to competing at the 2016 Games in Rio.
The 38-year-old won an emotional gold medal at the 2012 Olympics in the double skulls with partner Anna Watkins after having to settle for silver at the three previous Games.
"It's now over two years since the London Olympics and it's really about time that decisions were made," said Grainger, who returned to serious training this week.
"For my own sanity as much as anything else. I've discussed, listened, thought, considered, and still felt none the wiser.
"So it's time to return to the boat and test the waters, literally. I've missed it, I love it, I want to see if I can be good at it again. No guarantees, no promises, but a start."
Grainger has completed a PhD and worked in the media during her break from the sport, while Watkins has confirmed she will not be in Rio with her second baby expected in February next year. The pair were unbeaten in 23 races between 2010 and 2012.
"Delighted Katherine's decided to go back rowing. Go girl," said Watkins on Twitter.
Grainger, who has yet to confirm which event she will race in, added: "Many people have said it's a risk, but in the words of Neil Simon the playwright 'If no one ever took risks, Michelangelo would have painted the Sistine floor'."
