Henry Fieldman became the first person in the history of the Olympics to win a medal in both men’s and women’s events, thanks to his bronze in the women’s eight.
This came after he claimed bronze in Tokyo in the men’s eight three years ago and he now holds a unique place in Olympic history.
This came about as Fieldman is a coxswain and, thanks to a rule change in 2017, the coxswain can compete in the boat with either gender.
The cox steers the boat from the stern and calls the strokes, facing the rowers as they help implement strategy.
The Brit said of his achievement: ‘They only changed the rule in 2017 so someone was going to do it and it just happened to be me.’
He was clearly thrilled with the success, despite the humble response, saying: ‘It’s been a real joy, the honour of my life.’
The 36-year-old …