Paralympic gold winner credits Marlow for her victory (From Bucks Free Press)

Paralympic gold winner credits Marlow for her victory

9:06pm Sunday 9th September 2012 in News By James Nadal

GOLD medal winning Paralympian Naomi Riches says Marlow played a massive role in her triumph.

Naomi, who has lived in the town since 2008, raced to victory in the mixed coxed four.

She hailed Marlow Rowing Club, and said there was no hesitation when Royal Mail asked her where she wanted them to pain her golden post box.

Naomi, 29, said: "They said where do you want your postbox? I said Marlow High Street, that was my first choice."

Although she grew up in Harrow in west London, she has lived in Marlow since 2008 and said this now feels like home.

Naomi, who won bronze four years ago in Beijing said Marlow Rowing Club has been 'absolutely crucial'.

She said: "Marlow itself is a rowing town, it's part of the makeup of Marlow.

"Marlow Rowing Club has helped so hugely over the past four years, especially the year I wasn't selected for the boat.

"I could go and train down at Marlow, they're such a great bunch of people, they're really supportive no matter what level of rowing you are doing they help you with whatever you need.

"Rowing is a life not just a job. When you're getting the support in your down time as well as your training time it really helps make a better all round athlete."

The club was wrecked by fire 13 months ago and has embarked on a huge fundraising drive so it can realise its ambitious restoration plans.

"Not having the club in full working order is not good for the town, it's the sporting hub of the town, along with the football club," said the Paralympian, who has been swamped by media appearances since her victory.

"Not having it there and being able to use it to its full potential is really sad."

Naomi, who appeared on The One Show last week, said: "I miss not being able to go there and pop in.

"If I finish early on a Sunday I catch up with friends at the bar, but there's no bar at the moment. It's little details like that which we miss more than people realise."

She hailed the designs for the revamp, saying: "It's ambitious but with the correct support behind they'll definitely be able to do it.

"You've got to put those ideas out there there's no point in aiming for something standard, you've got to aim higher."