Queen’s College Taunton proudly announces that alumna, Rebecca Wilde, has qualified for the 2024 Paris Olympics in the Women’s Double Sculls Rowing event. Wilde, partnering Mathilda Hodgkins Byrne, secured her place on Team GB after a stellar performance at the Final Olympic Qualification Regatta in Switzerland this past week.

In an intense and gruelling competition, Wilde and Hodgkins Byrne crossed the finish line in second place, securing their spot in the upcoming Olympics. Overcome with emotion, Wilde expressed her astonishment and joy at the achievement, stating, “I’m in shock. I don’t know what happened there. It’s been a lot of hard work…It’s been tough. I can’t believe we’ve qualified for Paris… It’ll take a while to settle in. I was listening to Mathilda’s words the whole way down, listening to what she was saying and trying not to think about anything or anyone else. We’re going to have a few days off then all eyes on Paris and see what we can do there.”

Wilde’s journey to the Olympics is a testament to her dedication and perseverance. Prior to rowing, she spent a decade at national level as a swimmer, culminating in representing Wales at international level. Whilst studying at Bath University, she turned to rowing and was part of the Talent ID programme World Class Start. The journey has been far from easy for Wilde: she underwent two hip operations in 2019, has endured multiple rib stress fractures and underwent surgery again in September 2023 for compartment syndrome in both forearms. The challenges she has had to overcome make this achievement all the more rewarding. 

Her athletic prowess is perhaps unsurprising given her background: both of her parents are teachers at Queen’s College Taunton and have competed in sports at an international level. Her brother and sister have also followed in the family’s athletic footsteps participating at international level, further highlighting the exceptional sporting environment that has surrounded her.

Rebecca Wilde’s achievement not only brings pride to her family, friends and peers but also serves as an inspiration to current students at Queen’s College, Taunton. As Wilde and Hodgkins Byrne take a short break before resuming their training, all eyes are on the 2024 Paris Olympics, where the duo aims to make their mark. The Queen’s College community eagerly anticipates watching Wilde compete on the world stage, embodying the spirit and excellence of her alma mater.

Photo credits: Benedict Tufnell