Matt Aldridge

Rowing is a family business for Matt. His dad, Steve, a long-time coach at Christchurch Rowing Club, has always been a driving force in his career and Matt’s love for the sport has been nurtured by his dad’s love for it.

As a child, Matt would often be found on the launch watching his dad coach and was later coached by him at Christchurch. Matt’s nan is his number one fan and her unwavering support and belief in her grandson has driven his will to succeed. He also met his fiancé, Sophia when they raced as part of the GB Under23 Rowing Team.

Matt’s time on the senior GB Rowing Team hasn’t been easy. In 2022 he tested positive for COVID the day before the start of the World Rowing Championships and had to watch his men’s four crew mates claim the title from his hotel room. Committed to coming back fighting in 2023, Matt was reselected to the men’s four in 2023. The crew’s calm and efficient approach to racing saw them retain their World Championship title, finish the season unbeaten and stylishly qualify the boat for the Paris 2024 Olympics.

David is extremely pround to have won the bronze medal with Oli Wilkes, David Ambler and Freddie Davidson in the Men’s four at the 2024 Olympic Rowing Regatta in Paris.

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After rowing, between training and preparing for the Olympics, Matt and Sophia are busy planning their 2025 wedding.