Mike Spraklen reflects on Olympic glory

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1992 Summer Olympics

Image via Wikipedia

A lovely old piece of video showing Briton, Mike Spraklen, talking about his first Canadian eight who won gold in Barcelona 1992.

The 1992 Olympics in Barcelona were a triumph for Canadian rowing. The team won 4 gold medals. The men’s eights (John WallaceBruce RobertsonMike ForgeronDarren BarberRobert MarlandMichael RascherAndy CrosbyDerek Porter and Terry Paul [cox]) outlasted the defending Olympic and world champion German crew to win gold.

Spraklen Quick quotes:

There’s a very fine line the coach has to tread friendly enought to be a friend but distant enough to be a leader.

The Coaches’ contribution to a medal is about 10%.  It’s the man who does the work it’s the man who produces the goods, it’s the man who wins the medal.  And I honour and respect that situation.

The athletes’ approach, the athletes’ respect, the way they conduct themselves is really 100% and it’s one of the most remarkable experiences I’ve had in coaching crews.

Where are they now?

The film interviews three guys – take a look at their subsequent careers.  Awesome life skills they clearly learnt from the sport of rowing.

Rob Marland real estate professional

John Wallace on video  talking about the Olympic experience

Mike Forgeron joining the hall of fame

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