Coleraine rowers proud to be selected represent Team GB again

Bann ‘Old Boys’ Alan Campbell and the Chambers brother, Peter and Richard, were named in the squad for Rio.

Alan for a record fourth time, and Peter and Richard for a second and third time respectively.

Four years ago when the trio competed at the London Games the whole of Coleraine was on the edge of its seat as they cheered the boys on to medal success.

Alan of course won Bronze in the Sculls, with Peter and Richard claiming Silver in the Lightweight four.

Now they will be hoping to add to that when they head off to Brazil later this summer.

Speaking at the squad announcement last week the Chambers brothers spoke of their pride at the selection.

London 2012 lightweight men’s four silver medallist Richard Chambers will compete with first-time Olympian Will Fletcher. The duo also won World silver in 2015.

“I have to pinch myself to be honest as I never really thought I would take part in one Olympic Games never mind three,” said Richard.

“To be able to represent your country at any level is a massive achievement, but to be able to do it at the Olympics and to represent Team GB is such an honour.

“It’s the pinnacle of our sport, it’s the fastest boats and the best athletes in the world, and to be able to be there and be amongst it is going to be pretty cool.

“I am massively thankful for it.”

Peter Chambers, Richard’s younger brother, will race with his London 2012 silver medal winning crew-mate Chris Bartley in a lightweight four which includes Jono Clegg and Mark Aldred.

“It’s massive news to be selected again,” said Peter.

“It’s been a tough four years, there’s been some fantastic ups and a lot of lows, but it’s been brilliant to finally get here.

“It’s been a quick four years in ways, it doesn’t feel like it’s been that long since London, and now we’re round to Rio and ready to go.”