Andy Triggs-Hodge interview

The gold medal doesn't really feel like it's mine. I look back on both of my medals as something that happened to someone else. Every now and again I get a kick and I realise that it was me doing the rowing but, even then, I owe so much to those around me for making my journey possible. From my wife, family and friends, the coaches and support staff within rowing, to the organisers and volunteers who made the games possible, and finally to each and everyone who supported the games and gave their emotional energy towards it. The team was 60 million strong, and a nation delivered! When I hold the medal, that's what I think of.

The first night I was broken, so it was an early night, rather disappointingly, however on the second night I had a great time with some amazing friends who had come over from the USA. However, every time someone recognised me or asked to see the medal, the celebrations continue and the smiles come back. I'm so privileged to be in this position. I essentially have a 'party in my pocket'! So long as I have my medal with me!

My time at Oxford showed me what could be achieved in life if you have the right support and the right attitude. The message was exactly the same between my course here, and the rowing team. While I was a rower previously, the sport had never really captured my imagination. It was my year at Oxford that opened up a whole new appreciation for life and living it. It's something I wish that more people could have through all our lives. We'd certainly be richer for it, and I'm not talking about money.

For me rowing has to come from the heart. You have to want to put yourself through some considerable pain, and compromise. So in light of this, I'll take my time to decide my future. Rowing is definitely a choice, but there are a few doors to look in before anything is settled! What ever it is, I hope that I continue to enjoy life like I have done over the past few years!