Former Olympic rower James Cracknell has announced that he will be standing as a Tory MP in the next general election. The double gold medallist beat out five competitors to become the Conservative candidate for Colchester in Essex - a seat currently held by outgoing MP Will Quince, who will be stepping down from politics to prioritize his family.
A Natural Fit for Westminster
Cracknell's move into politics has been long anticipated, with many believing that his determination and success as an athlete would translate well to a career in Westminster. He previously attempted to become a candidate in Henley but was unsuccessful. The 51-year-old rowing legend won gold medals for Great Britain in the coxless four crew in both the 2000 and 2004 Olympics.
A Life-Changing Accident
In 2010, four years after retiring from rowing, Cracknell embarked on a series that involved running, cycling, and swimming across the United States. During one of the cycling legs, he endured a life-threatening accident when he fractured his skull. Miraculously, his bike helmet saved his life. However, the incident left him with lingering challenges, including bouts of frustration and difficulty maintaining focus.
A Rollercoaster Personal Life
Cracknell's personal life has also seen its share of ups and downs. He married TV presenter Beverly Turner in 2002, but the couple divorced in 2019 while he was appearing on Strictly Come Dancing. In 2021, he tied the knot with financier Jordan Connell.
High Hopes for Colchester
The Conservative group leader in Colchester, Paul Dundas, expressed confidence in Cracknell's candidacy, stating, "James was the clear choice of members. I think he will be a fantastic candidate and a great MP for Colchester. He will win because he is a guy who doesn't do losing."
Cracknell's entry into the political arena comes as no surprise given his history of perseverance and achievement. As he takes on this new challenge, it remains to be seen how his Olympic mindset will translate to the world of British politics.
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