Madeline Jackson

Nationality: Height: cm
Course
College St Edmund's
University Cambridge
Status Postgraduate
Role Rower

About Madeline :

What course are you studying and what level?

Medicine (graduate), 3rd Year

Why did you choose that course?

I’ve wanted to be a doctor since I was about 12. I took a slightly long-winded route to medical school and undertook a Neuroscience undergraduate degree initially, but this really only confirmed that medicine was still the dream!

When, where and why did you start rowing? And what do you love about the sport?

I began rowing aged 11 at Walton Rowing Club. I was a competitive swimmer in my younger years and the pool I trained at was right next to the boat club on the river. I thought it looked like fun, so signed up to a beginners course. The rest is history…!

Rowing quickly became a huge part of my life and I met some of my closest friends at training. I loved spending time with like-minded people, and it provided some out-of-school structure as well as an outlet for stress during my secondary school years.

What was your first rowing club and coach?

Walton Rowing Club.

I was first coached by Mike Hendry and Neil West.

What or who was the earliest sporting inspiration you remember as a child?

Alistair and Jonny Brownlee at the London 2012 Olympics. I’m very close with my younger brother and remember loving watching another set of siblings who also appeared to be so close and supportive of each-other.

How has rowing and being part of the Boat Race squad impacted your life?

The friends I have made through rowing are undoubtedly the best part of being involved in this sport. From my friends at Walton RC, to my first boat race crew, and my current squad-mates at CUBC, each and every one of them inspire me. I’ve learned (and am still learning!) how to challenge myself and grow from failure and success.

If you weren’t a rower, what sport do you think you’d excel at?

Probably swimming or cycling!

What is your favourite non-academic book?

I’m not a big reader.. I’ll be honest! Roald Dahl books are probably still my favourite!

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