Historic Double: Callum Dixon and Benjamin Pritchard Named British Rowing Athletes of the Year

Ben and Callum both got their start in rowing at Twickenham, joining the club in 2017 and 2019 respectively

Twickenham Rowing Club (TwRC) is immensely proud to announce that two of its most accomplished members, Callum Dixon and Benjamin Pritchard, have been named Olympic Male Athlete of the Year and Paralympic Athlete of the Year respectively, by their respective organisations.

The accolades, announced following the 2026 GB Rowing Team Final Trials, recognise a year of unprecedented achievement for both athletes, who have consistently represented Twickenham’s colours on rowing’s biggest stages.

“It’s fantastic to see both men recognised for their ongoing contribution to the GB Rowing Team,” said Helen Brown, Director of Rowing for Twickenham Rowing Club.

“As a club we were privileged enough to witness Ben and Callum start from scratch. Having both been performance athletes prior to picking up a pair of blades, they taught many members how to be resilient, how talent is nothing without hard work and consistency; all whilst upholding core values of the club of mutual respect and being  community minded. We are thrilled that they are getting the recognition they deserve both on and off the water.’’

Callum Dixon: BOA Male Athlete of the Year

Callum Dixon named BOA Male Athlete of the Year for his 2025 accomplishments

After a successful sailing career, Callum joined TwRC where he honed the power and technique that have made him a staple of the GB Men’s Quadruple Sculls.

A former European U23 gold medalist representing Twickenham, Callum’s 2025 season was a masterclass in sculling, culminating in being a member of the first Great Britain crew to take the gold medal in the men's quadruple sculls at the European Rowing Championships, as well as winning a World Championship silver.

“We won the European championships last year and it was our first race together as a quad and we set a European record and it just felt like a really good start,” Callum said.

The BOA highlighted Callum’s role as Men’s Squad athlete representative and the culture he helps to build. Callum reflected on his time at Twickenham and how that carries forward into his approach as part of Team GB.

“I've got such good memories of my time at Twickenham… The group of people we were training with and then how friendly everyone at Twickenham was and is, is such a positive experience because everyone makes you feel very welcome.”

From British Rowing…

“The BOA Male Olympic Athlete of the Year was Callum Dixon. Callum, from Tower Hamlets London, embodies pride in representing his nation on the world stage, carries a deep sense of responsibility to his teammates and the sport, and consistently shows respect for both competitors and the rowing community. He also shows unity with his role as Men’s Squad athlete representative where he helps to build a culture where collective strength matters as much as individual achievement.”

Benjamin Pritchard: BPA Athlete of the Year

Ben Pritchard named BPA Athlete of the Year for his 2025 accomplishments

Prior to last season Ben was already the reigning men’s single sculls Paralympic Champion from Paris 2024 and his 2025 season was statistically one of the greatest in the history of the PR1 Men’s Single Sculls.

Ben went unbeaten throughout 2025, setting a new World Record and securing the triple crown of Paralympic, World, and European titles. Beyond his speed on the water, Ben remains a champion for inclusivity within the sport, often sharing his expertise with the rowing community and advocating for accessible rowing for all.

“To be recognised with the BPA Paralympic Athlete of the Year is another humbling experience,” Ben shared. “Last year was a fantastic year for everyone in the Paralympic Squad and we continued to lead the way internationally.”

In addition to Twickenham and the GB Para-Rowing team, Ben represents City of Swansea Rowing Club.

“I am very appreciative of the support from the wider squad, coaches and support staff and of course to the clubs that have helped me reach where I am. It is always a pleasure to represent City of Swansea Rowing Club and Twickenham Rowing Club.”

From British Rowing…

“The Paralympic Athlete of the year for 2025 was Benjamin Pritchard. Benjamin was recognised for his relentless pursuit of performance, his ability to push physical boundaries and his leadership as a role model with the rowing community where he is an outstanding ambassador for Paralympic sport. In 2025, Benjamin’s victory in Shanghai completed his list of accolades to become the reigning European, World and Paralympic Champion. He was also awarded World Rowing Para Crew of the Year. His discipline, resilience and self belief are an inspiration to other athletes, an example to his young daughter and a source of great pride in Wales where he became the first rower, and only 3rd ever Paralympian in the award’s 71 year history to be named winner of BBC Wales Sports Personality of the Year.”

About Twickenham Rowing Club

Founded in 1860, Twickenham Rowing Club is the third oldest club on the River Thames. Located on Eel Pie Island, the club provides coaching and facilities for all levels, from beginners to international athletes.