1984. George Michael’s ‘Careless Whisper’ tops the UK charts. In Australia, it’s Wham! with ‘Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go’. In the US, Prince with ‘When Doves Cry’.

A heavy mist blanketed Lake Casitas, north of Los Angeles, as the crews in the men’s coxed 4 event lined up for the Olympic final.

Take 10 minutes out today to watch this terrific 2014 video  of the British crew, and coach Mike Spracklen, looking back on the day.

There are things in here we can all relate to.

22-year-old Steven Redgrave reveals his feelings about competing at his first Olympics.

Martin Budgett describes how they arranged their training to mimic the 7 am finals day race schedule. (Wake me up before you go-go?)

Martin Cross explains why he took over the calls from the cox. No careless whispers here (and no disrespect to the cox).

Sadly, Andy Holmes has since died.

For the American crew, I imagine some doves cried.

There’s a fascinating Aussie story from that day too. Stay tuned.

Cover photo: Copyright Henley Royal Regatta