Rob Waddell remains diplomatic in his approach, but there is no doubting his ambition to be an Olympic gold medallist again.

The rower has had the early season advantage over current single sculls world champion Mahe Drysdale. The three trial races which will decide who gets the Olympic spot are scheduled to start late next month.

Waddell has responded to Drysdale's recent statements about the two-man races being disruptive to the year's programme. He admits training will be tapered over the next three weeks but says that is something he has always done leading into national championships, while trialling is a constant of the sport for all athletes.

Waddell wants a "first past the post" verdict confirmed over the three races as a suitable incentive.