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Nicholas Hudson

Sydney University Boat Club (NSW)

Nick attended The King’s School in Sydney, made his mark in the rowing world in 2001, when he became part of the legendary King’s crew that went undefeated, triumphing in all 28 races they entered. Among these was the prestigious Henley Royal Regatta, where they showcased their unparalleled talent. At the Head of the River, Nick’s crew surged ahead with a stunning five-second victory, shattering event records with an electrifying time of 5:47. They also celebrated a remarkable win in the Barrington Cup at the nationals and claimed the coveted Princess Elizabeth Challenge Cup, solidifying their legacy.

2001 King's School Eight at Henley Royal Regatta - Nick in the three seat

2003 was a breakthrough year for Nick, a year that would define the beginning of his incredible journey in rowing. At the National Championships, he not only claimed the Under-23 Men’s Double Scull title but also powered the Interstate Men’s Youth Eight to victory, stroking the crew to a stunning 5-second win. His performances caught the attention of selectors, and soon he was chosen for the U23 Men’s Quad at the World Championships. Before even stepping onto the U23 stage, the crew got the rare chance to race at the senior level at World Cup 3, where they finished in 10th place—a perfect warm-up for what lay ahead. That experience paid off in a big way. At the U23 World Championships, Nick and his crew rose to the occasion, claiming the gold and becoming world champions. The next year, Nick returned to the U23 World Championships, securing a bronze medal, though they were unable to defend their world title—a bitter but valuable lesson.

Nick’s determination and grit only grew stronger from there. In 2009, after several years of focused training, he stepped back onto the national stage with a vengeance. He won both the Double Scull and the Quad at the National Championships. As if that weren’t enough, he helped New South Wales win the King’s Cup for the second year in a row. This extraordinary season earned him a spot in the senior Australian Quad, where he helped the crew clinch a silver medal—Nick’s first senior international medal, a moment that solidified his place among Australia’s rowing elite.

2009 World Championships Australian Men's Quad Scull - Nick in bow

In 2010, Nick continued to dominate. Another National title in the Quad and another win in the King’s Cup followed, but it was his performance on the international stage that truly set him apart. At World Cups 2 and 3, he raced the Single Scull, finishing in the E and D finals, pushing himself further each time. But it was at the World Championships, racing in the Double Scull, that Nick truly showed his mettle. He made the A final and came agonizingly close to a medal, finishing 5th in a fiercely competitive field. He proved to the world—and to himself—that he was a force to be reckoned with.

In 2011, Nick’s relentless drive carried him to yet another National title in the Quad. Internationally, he raced the Single Scull at World Cup 3, where he placed 13th, just missing the A/B semi-finals. But Nick wasn’t done yet. He stayed in the Single Scull for the World Championships, pushing through the season to finish 18th—a testament to his unwavering commitment and the sheer will to keep improving.

2012 was a bittersweet year. Nick claimed his third King’s Cup for New South Wales, a feat that underscored his dominance on the national stage. But the Olympics were just out of reach. Despite missing selection for the Quad at the London Games, Nick wasn’t deterred. He raced the Pair at World Cups 2 and 3, finishing 13th and 7th, respectively, never losing sight of his goal. After a year of reflection, Nick returned to the international stage in 2014 at World Cup 1. There, he delivered an exceptional performance, winning the Quad Scull and finishing 5th in the Double Scull—a final chapter that showcased the heart and determination that had defined his career.

2014 World Cup 1 - Nick in the winning Quad Scull

Through it all, Nick demonstrated an unyielding passion for the sport. He never backed down from a challenge, always pushing himself to new heights. His career was a testament to the power of hard work, resilience, and an unshakable belief in his ability to succeed, no matter the obstacles.

Some rowing highlights

2001 National Championship Schoolboy Eight – First

2001 Henley Royal Regatta Princess Elizabeth Challenge Cup – First

2003 National Championship U23 Men’s Double Scull – First

2003 National Championship Interstate Men’s Youth Eight – First

2003 World Rowing Cup III Men’s Quad Scull – Tenth

2003 World Rowing U23 Championship Men’s Quad – First

2004 World Rowing U23 Championship Men’s Quad – Third

2009 National Championship Men’s Double Scull – First

2009 National Championship Men’s Quad Scull - First

2009 National Championship Interstate Men’s Eight – First

2009 World Rowing Championships Men’s Quad Scull – Second

2010 National Championship Men’s Quad Scull – First

2010 National Championship Interstate Men’s Eight – First

2010 World Rowing Cup II Men’s Single Scull – Twenty Fifth

2010 World Rowing Cup III Men’s Single Scull – Twenty Third

2010 World Rowing Championships Men’s Double Scull – Fifth

2011 National Championship Men’s Quad Scull – First

2011 World Rowing Cup III Men’s Single Scull – Thirteenth

2011 World Rowing Championship Men’s Single – Eighteenth

2012 National Championship Interstate Men’s Eight – First

2012 World Rowing Cup II Men’s Pair – Thirteenth

2012 World Rowing Cup II Men’s Pair – Seventh

2014 World Rowing Cup I Men’s Double Scull – Fifth

2014 World Rowing Cup I Men’s Quad Scull – First

Jack Hargreaves
December 2024