Waddell still tossing up sailing, rowing options

By CHRIS RATTUE

Olympic gold medal rower Rob Waddell is still considering a defence of his title in Athens, and has also left the door wide open for a return to Team New Zealand if they mount a challenge at the next America's Cup.

Meantime, the 28-year-old's rugby career continues as a Waikato B lock in Mt Maunganui today, and his Olympic plans could depend heavily on the progress in his new sport.

Waddell will decide his future in late October, leaving just enough time to regain Olympic shape.

The double world champion sculler would try to qualify in Switzerland three months before the late-August Olympics.

The 2.03m (6ft 8in) Waddell bulked up nearly 20kg as a yachting grinder and rugby forward, and now weighs 120kg. He would face a daunting rowing comeback.

"Knowing what I've done before, what's required, how my body adapts to training, it's not too far-fetched," he said.

"It would be very challenging - one of a few options I have. I take it day by day.

"And I really enjoyed my time with TNZ, except the hugely disappointing result.

"I still have ambitions of winning an America's Cup. The people I'm talking to ... there seems really good momentum and people involved."

Waddell was highly regarded by TNZ, and syndicate boss Grant Dalton wants him back, while encouraging him to pursue other sporting dreams in the meantime.

Waddell has done up to five rugby-related training sessions a day, while juggling parental duties with his wife, Sonia - who is preparing for the world rowing championships.

He was named in Waikato B this week, after working with the extended NPC squad, including playing the final quarter against North Harbour, who included test forwards Tony Woodcock, Ron Cribb and Blair Larsen.

"It wasn't long ago I was in the stand cheering for the Mooloo boys," Waddell said.

"I sat there for the first half pretty nervous, frightened about what I had got myself into because I don't have a lot of rugby experience.

"But it was almost easier than club rugby because it is so well-structured. There are fewer mistakes.

"I really enjoyed it, and didn't feel out of my depth at all.

"I was put in the NPC squad to get some skills, to improve, and I need lots of game time," he said.

"It's like learning how to sail or row again. It's been really enjoyable, but very frustrating to be back at square one.

"There's lots to work on, but I'm pleased with my scrummaging. I've improved every game ...

"The hardest thing was figuring where I needed to be rather than running here, there and everywhere."

Waddell said all the players naturally wanted to be in the top side.

He turned out against East Coast on Wednesday, departing with a back strain, and plays another trial game against Bay of Plenty B today.