Redgrave eyes a rowing revolution

Redgrave wants more excitement on the water

Five-times Olympic champion Steve Redgrave is launching a campaign to make rowing less "boring".

The five-times Olympic champion wants to introduce a Formula One-style format involving the world's top oarsmen.

Redgrave's plan would feature a series of 60 second races at different international venues, overseen by his company Super Sprint Rowing plc.

"The success of the concept depends on the right funding," he told the Financial Times. "We need lots of backing from the business world."

Chance

Redgrave, 38, whose gold medals have come in five consecutive Olympics, has the chance to test out his idea at Windsor on 14 October.

Competitors will race over a distance of just 380m, with the emphasis on excitement.

Redgrave said: "Many race meetings start at 8am and rowing clubs are seen as boring places. Super sprint's aim is to make rowing accessible and entertaining."