Western New York is well represented in Olympic rowing, with three athletes making the trip to Rio, including Pittsford's Henrik Rummel who's excited for his second trip to the Olympics.
"I've never felt anything like sitting at the starting line of the Olympics and just being like, this is you know, you feel like you're really representing the whole country," said Rummel.
Rummel and his USA Men's Four rowing team did more than represent the Red, White, and Blue in the 2012 London Olympics. They ended a 20-year drought in the event, bringing home the bronze medal. Now, in what Rummel says is his swan song, he's looking for more.
"I think this time my expectations is for a silver or a bronze and anything less would be very disappointing," said Rummel.
Rummel notes topping the French team for gold is going to take a special performance, something his crew had a couple years ago winning gold in multiple international competitions.
"The whole has to be greater than the sum of the parts and now I think we have four really talented guys. If we come together in the same way, some sparks are going to fly," said Rummel.
The men's four used their last few days before they headed to Rio to try and once again regain that combustible combination.
"Now it's all just refining that timing and making sure that when the green light comes on we are firing together on all cylinders," said Rummel.
Once the race ends, gold or otherwise, Rummel will return home to the ultimate prize, his baby boy. Henrik and his wife became parents just weeks ago.
The men's four final is set for Friday, Aug. 12.