Former Olympic medallist Ondřej Synek receives Thomas Keller Award

Ondřej Synek, the most successful rower in Czech history, has received the Thomas Keller Award for international success, exemplary sportsmanship and lifelong contribution to rowing. The medal, named after a former president of World Rowing, was announced by the federation on its website on Sunday.

The 43-year-old is a five-time world champion and won two silver and one bronze medal at the Olympic Games. He has also claimed numerous medals at world and European championships.

Synek becomes only the second Czech to receive the award, following Václav Chalupa. Although he had been nominated in previous years, the honour was awarded to him this year.