A ROWING champion who is vying to become Colchester's next MP has been described as "genuine, funny guy" after visiting sports clubs in the city.

Double Olympic gold medallist James Cracknell headed to Rowhedge Coastal Rowing Club, in High Street, and Colchester Golf Club, in Braiswick. 

During his visit to Colchester Golf Club, he spoke about his Olympic experiences at the Sydney 2000 and Athens 2004 games.

He also delved into how he managed to win an impressive his six World Championship titles.

Gazette: Achievement - Mr Cracknell has won two Olympic gold medalsAchievement - Mr Cracknell has won two Olympic gold medals (Image: Rowhedge Coastal Rowing Club)
A spokesman for the club added: "James then talked us through the mental strength needed to row across the Atlantic Ocean with Ben Fogle in the 2005–06 Atlantic Rowing Race, and the accident when James was knocked off his bike by a lorry in Arizona as he attempted to cycle, row, run and swim from Los Angeles to New York.

"This has left James with brain injuries, memory loss, and a permanent loss of taste and smell.

"James has also completed numerous charitable activities to promote their activities and importantly supporting charities assisting in recovery from brain injuries.

"It was a great morning listening to his story, thank you."

The legendary sportsman was selected as the Conservative candidate for Colchester in September 2023 after Will Quince announced he would not run in the next General Election.

A spokesman from Rowhedge Coastal Rowing Club said: “It was lovely to meet such a genuine, funny guy who interacted with club members telling tales of  his exploits over such an amazing rowing career.”