Pinsent takes to the water with Iraqi Olympic hopefuls

The duo have had many obstacles to conquer in search of their dream, counting bodies floating in the river and gun shots ringing out overhead, but they have managed to train throughout the last eight years and made it to Beijing in 2008.

They are now hoping that their dream of rival at London 2012 will be fulfilled. Before Sir Matthew could set foot in Iraq he had to undergo security briefings and a six day Hostile environment and First Aid Training course.

But he says all the preparation and the risk was worth it for the chance to go rowing on the Tigris with the Iraqi rowing team.