Video: Mahe Drysdale ready to revive Olympic rivalry with Damir Martin

Mahe Drysdale and Damir Martin (Photosport)
Mahe Drysdale and Damir Martin (Photosport)

Two-time Olympic gold medallist Mahe Drysdale is already eyeing up what he can do next year as he takes some time out from rowing.

Last time he took a break it included doing the Coast to Coast and an Ironman.

But before he decides, Drysdale will row the Billy Webb Challenge on the Whanganui River on December 11.

The main reason why Drysdale will be taking part is due to Olympic silver medallist, Croatian rower Damir Martin.

The last time the pair raced was in the Rio Olympics, when Drysdale beat Martin by 1/5000th of a second to win gold.

Drysdale and Martin have been training together, but after taking time out after Rio, both rowers agree they're not exactly race fit.

"I've done a little bit of cycling but nothing really serious," said Martin. "I think Mahe and I are in the same shape, so going to be a great race again."

It is no surprise that both athletes will be trying to avoid another photo finish.

"Certainly for me I wouldn't be too unhappy to be lengths in front," said Drysdale.

"But I don't think that's going to happen in this race. It's also an exciting format - we're starting and finishing at the same spot, so will turn around a buoy."

It adds even more intrigue to an already fascinating match-up.

Newshub.