Hamish was returning to OBs in his capacity as a New Zealand Sports Ambassador. It’s fair to say that this was an incredible opportunity for the lucky students and staff as it’s not everyday you get to meet with someone who has achieved such success.

In his humble and approachable manner, Hamish lead a question and answer with boys and staff present, talking through many aspects of his career and life from his days at OBHS as a hostel boy through to standing on the podium at the Olympics.

Hamish spoke about making smart ‘choices’ as the key to his success and happiness. He emphasised the importance of not getting daunted by a seemingly insurmountable end goal like winning a gold medal, but simply making the choice to do the next thing well. It may be to get out of bed for that next training session or the decision to not get into the car with that mate who’s been drinking. Overtime, you can accumulate enough good choices.

Hamish said, “I was like you”. Rating himself, perhaps humbly, as an OK sportsman at school, he remembers recording a 7:53 min 2km erg in his first year of rowing. This highlights the work ethic of the man. “It’s not always fun (the training), but I learnt to derive a sense of self-worth from it – knowing I can stick with it.”

Hamish clearly understands the importance of enjoying the process more than the result. “Talent is only an entry ticket. I’m more impressed with effort and application. Effort in equals results out.”

He talked about the result taking care of itself if you’ve done the hard work. When asked what it takes to go from a novice to an expert, Hamish spoke about consistency and experience over time.

Hamish also spoke about the importance of finding the balance between sport and other aspects of his life. This is no surprise as Hamish was a strong academic student in his time at school as well and has gone on to graduate from university. He was keen to point out the lessons that his sport has taught him for life, such as being reliable, hard-working, dependable and respectful. He pointed out the value of such things to employers in the future.

Hamish spoke passionately about the opportunities and experiences that his sport has opened up to him. He has made strong friendships with people all over the world and has a deep sense of pride in being a New Zealand sports person.

Our boys clearly enjoyed making this connection with Hamish. It must be inspirational for them to see that someone of his quality was just like them, and in many ways is still that OB’s boy at heart. OBHS would like to thank Hamish for graciously visiting us and for the gentle and genuine way in which he engaged with our boys. He is a man of integrity and excellence, and we are proud to claim him as one of us.

Thanks Hamish!

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