GB Olympic star visits Vinehall

Beth Rodford, part of the Great Britain Rowing Team from the London 2012 Olympic Games, spent two days at the Robertsbridge school, talking to pupils and helping run coaching session on the new rowing machines bought by the school.

Vinehall headmaster Richard Follett, himself a team manager, selector and coach for the GB Junior Rowing Team, has established an indoor rowing club and the school now takes part in the monthly National Schools Indoor Rowing League.

Beth Rodford arrived in time to eat with the boarding pupils and answered their questions about her Olympic Games experience.

She and Mr Follett ran a training session on the rowing machines, which was enjoyed by all.

A 2010 World Champion, Beth Rodford was part of the Women’s Quadruple Scull which finished in sixth place at the 2012 Games.

She started rowing at the age of 12, so was ideally placed to talk about the dedication and commitment required for elite sport.

During her assembly to the school she made a link between years of training, getting results and how school life is much the same.

Following the assemblies to the prep and pre-prep children, Beth stayed for photographs with an Olympic torch and signed autographs.

As a result of her visit, Vinehall are targeting a high position in the national rankings when the Indoor Schools Rowing League kicks off this month.