At 16, John McAvoy owned a sawn-off shotgun and spent his time doing grunt work... at 18 he was handed two life sentences. Now he’s the only Nike-sponsored Ironman triathlete. He tells Josie Cox his story

The Coxless Crew, a team of four British women, has successfully rowed a boat from San Francisco to Cairns, Australia, wrapping up a nine-month journey.

New tests carried out by the Associated Press have found that the waters around Rio de Janeiro are heavily and dangerously contaminated, even 1Km out to sea. The new tests bring further doubt on Rio's ability to safely hold the Olympics in 2016. The tests are the second series carried out by AP, who found in July that the waters had disease-causing virus levels 1.7 million times higher than what would cause extreme alarm in the US or Europe.

THE University of Warwick students' photos were deemed too rude for social media - but now they're back with a bang.

Rowers warm up in the morning during the World Rowing Championships in Aiguebelette, France.

A beautiful picture of a few people rowing on Lake Hayes. It's truly a beautiful shot.

What a beautiful picture! I always loved rowing because you would always see such scenery. The hot air balloon really makes it.

Teaching rowing young is the best way to do it!

If you are a rower and haven't read this. Buy it! Right now! Now! It's amazing!

This girl has unbelievable reach. I'm jealous and I love it.

West/BC championships starts Friday for the weekend with 561 entries! Its going to be an exciting race! I will make sure I post the results! \

Adults of any age or athletic ability can learn to row. The Genesee Rowing Club offers learn to row events, on the water rowing classes in spring summer and fall, and indoor tank classes during winter. We row on the Genesee River and the Erie Canal in Rochester, New York. We look forward to seeing you on the water!