2012 Four Preparation Pressure and Rhythm

1.Some footage from 2012 of the Australian Men's Four in preparation for the London Olympics. Why was this combination fast? Focuses on consistent pressure in the water through athletic intent to slide the hips, find the hang and relaxation, with a great sense of acceleration of the boat and calmness of the finish to continue the quick arms into a still finish. Letting the boat run and breath at the release enable greater flow, rhythm and ability to roll and catch. From stroke seat to bow the crew had full commitment to leading and following and James and Will in particular made the boat faster through their willingness to harmonise, combine, sit in the rhythm of the boat, and find ways to add massive value through calls, motivation, lightness of the recovery and acceleration through the drive to make the work for Josh and Drew easier. Not easy, but easier. Josh commanded the rhythm and lead thew timing, Drew and James created a middle pair match up that harmonised the rhythm and athletic drive, and Will then was masterful at adding confidence from perfect timing, calmness, composure and a lightness of the bow through his skill. Pure team work which wasn't about looking the same technically but rather teamwork from feeling for each other, listening to each other and helping each other to do their role the best they could. This combination was a true '1 + 1 + 1 + 1 = 6' The sum of the parts combining to create more than just the sum. That's teamwork. It was a privilege to be part of this team and the journey. The addition to this sense of teamwork is the strength of relationship with the coach, Chris O'Brien. Each connection between Chris and each member of the crew was harmonious, supporting and challenging when needed. The skill of the coach in this situation was helping bring the group together and helping to keep the group moving and progressing to peak performance with a focus on process to achieve some amazing outcomes. S. Josh Dunkley Smith 3. Drew Ginn 2. James Chapman B. Will Lockwood C. Chris O'Brien