Will Satch was delighted to win Olympic bronze just six months after doubting he would make the Games.

The 23-year-old, who was born in Oxford and grew up in Henley, and partner George Nash, 22, finished third in the men’s pairs final at Eton Dorney yesterday, having only raced together for three regattas before London 2012.

Satch had not even been sure of making the team at the beginning of the year.

He said: “At the end of the day, we are rowers and we are always looking for more.

“I believe we had that silver medal in us. I think we knew we never had the gold. “But to go and win a medal is great. Six months ago I didn’t think I’d be here.”

Satch and Nash were never in contention for gold against all-conquering New Zealand pair Eric Murray and Hamish Bond, who were unbeaten for four years.

But they almost snatched second before being pipped by France.

The British pair clocked 6mins 21.77secs to France’s 6.21.11.

Satch said: “We went out with the discipline to not go too crazy.

“The semi and the heat were great for us. Maybe we didn't have enough spare.”

The former Shiplake College pupil and Leander Club member added: “I have got every belief in this bloke here (Nash). He talked me through the race.

“Yes, we started slowly, but the crowd carried me in.

“We kept going and ground out a medal, which was awesome.”

The pair veered slightly off course in the closing stages before correcting themselves, but Nash played it down.

“George gave a lot in the first kilometre,” said Nash. “Maybe that was what caused it?

“I have got every confidence in George. I know has got it under control.

“I am just so proud of him pushing himself that hard that it happened.”

The first final of the day saw Britain’s men’s quadruple sculls finish fifth.

The crew, featuring Leander trio Steve Rowbotham, Tom Solesbury and Matt Wells alongside Charles Cousins, came home in 5.49.19 – four seconds off a medal.