This is the biography of Stephen Cox, an England-based Zimbabwean rower, who made his Olympic debut at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. His journey from a fishing enthusiast to an Olympic hopeful reflects determination, resilience, and a passion for rowing. Let’s explore his life and career.
Date of Birth
Stephen Cox was born on 29 September 1991.
Early Life & Education
Cox’s rowing journey began more than a decade ago at Peterhouse Boys’ School, located less than 100 kilometres from Harare, the capital of Zimbabwe. His initial strokes in a rowboat ignited a fascination with the sport, even as his love for fishing remained strong. Despite the lure of casting a rod, Cox chose to pursue rowing, which eventually led him to the Olympic stage.
Stephen Cox Rowing Career
Four years ago, Cox and fellow rower Peter Purcell-Gilpin attempted to qualify for the Tokyo 2020 (held in 2021) Olympics in the men’s double sculls boat. Unfortunately, they fell short in their bid. Fate took a twist, and Cox found himself competing for a spot in the single sculls category, with Purcell-Gilpin securing the ticket in a race-off.
Stephen Cox Biography [Image: Stephen Cox/Facebook]
In 2023, Stephen Cox secured one of the five Olympic quotas for Zimbabwe in the single sculls at the World Rowing African Olympic qualification regatta held in Tunisia. His dedication to rowing videos as a child, where he admired legends like Olaf Tufte and Mahé Drysdale, fueled his determination to reach the highest level of the sport.
Stephen Cox British Army Service
Cox, a Lance Corporal in the British Army, balances his military duties with his passion for rowing. Because of the British Army’s five-year hiatus, Cox was able to participate in the Olympics in France.
Stephen Cox Biography [Image: Stephen Cox/Facebook]
Personal Life
Stephen Cox married Emily Brace in 2021.
Stephen Cox Olympics Games Paris 2024
Stephen Cox won one of Zimbabwe’s five Olympic quotas after winning the 2023 World Rowing African Olympic qualification in Tunisia. He participated in the Me’s Single Sculls.
References
- Zimbabwean Rower Stephen Cox On How Fishing Created A Pathway To The Olympic Games – Olympics
- Stephen Cox: From Army Service to the Paris Olympics – Ein presswire
- Zimbabwe Olympic Committee – Facebook
