CHANGING COURSES

Q

Your first world title was in 420s in 2000. It was 2010 before your next. Why the big gap?

A

I spent eight years as a tuning partner, a guinea pig if you like, for Nathan Wilmott and Malcolm Page. It was an incredible journey so I guess I did my time. I trained hard and I trusted myself.

Q

Then you linked with Will Ryan as your crewman. You had won three world golds and the 2012 London Olympic Games together with Malcolm. What happened after that?

A

We went through a stretch where Malcolm and I won 18 events in a row and went unbeaten. What happened to the partnership? He was 10 years older than me and was 40 in London. I remain very thankful for giving me the chance after he won gold in Beijing with another partner.

Q

Then you teamed up with Will Ryan. Wasn’t he sort of a miniBelcher?

A

Will was from Newcastle and was actually a tuner for me and Malcolm. It was a natural progression for Will, just like it was for me. Will and I have shared four world titles And won silver in Rio de Janeiro.

Q

In your days at The Southport School were you a dux or anything like that along the way, something that stood out for you perhaps?

A

I was captain of Surman House and (ironman champion) Shannon Eckstein was vice-captain. I guess it was an honour to have such a champion as deputy.