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A year on from Brennan's rowing gold at Rio 2016

 

A year on from Brennan's rowing gold at Rio 2016

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AOC
A year on from Brennan's rowing gold at Rio 2016
365 days ago today, triple Olympian Kim Brennan completed her full set of Olympic medals when she won gold in the women's single scull at Rio 2016.

ROWING: 365 days ago today, triple Olympian Kim Brennan completed her full set of Olympic medals when she won gold in the women's single scull at Rio 2016.

A year on, and the Rio Closing Ceremony Flag Bearer reflects on her remarkable achievement at Rio and how life has changed.

What are your strongest memories of the Rio Olympics?
Mainly family and friends- it’s so special to celebrate with the team who helped you be the best you could be. I also have fond memories of the beauty and vibrancy of the city and how welcoming the Brazilians were.

What are your memories of your competition?
I remember just being so focussed on technically how I wanted to row, staying calm and letting the boat move underneath me. The finish of the race was a bit surreal- like a dream infused with lactic acid!

What did it mean for you to hear the Australian anthem play standing on the podium?
Beyond proud. I think I was still in shock at that stage. Seeing all my teammates in the crowd made it even more special.

What was it like when you returned home to your family and friends?
The best bit was seeing my husband. We had been apart while I prepared in Europe for the Games, and he was doing outreach work in Samoa. It was amazing to spend time with him and head away on a belated honeymoon.

Has your life changed much since the Games?
Day-to-day life is very different these days. I work full time as a management consultant in IT advisory for EY. In my spare time I’m involved with the Australian Olympic Committee as the Chef de Mission of the Youth Olympic Games and a member of the Athletes’ Commission. I’m still really passionate about sport and it has been particularly fantastic to see the next generation of Australian rowers break through to be international standard this year.

What have you done in the year since your success?
I’ve been on a honeymoon, started a new job, done some fun cycling races with friends, and spent quality time with my dog and husband!

Kim Brennan
olympics.com.au

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