SIR Matthew Pinsent, four-times Olympic rowing gold medallist, hopes West Devon youngsters take up the gauntlet to find the next generation of British oarsmen. He is backing the 'The Nation on Trial' initiative, sponsored by Siemens, which pits the public against each other and the clock. Two kilometres is the distance GB's top stars will race on the water at the Olympic Games but for anyone aspiring to join the GB team the year-long selection process begins with a 2km test on a rowing machine.

Matthew said: 'The Nation on Trial is a great opportunity for the public to get a feel for what the GB rowers are going through as they battle for selection for the 2012 season.

'It's tough, but there are clear rewards and by taking part you get to see how close you are to the GB entry standard and understand just how fast the top rowers are.'

Anyone of any ability aged 16 and over can register on the website http://www.nationontrial.org">www.nationontrial.org

The times for those aged 16-24 will also be assessed to see if anyone has the talent to be considered for Rio in 2016.