Full text of remarks made by myself at the Oxford University Swimming Club annual banquet, 5 June 2004:

Distinguished Guests, Old Members, Teammates and Friends-

Before I begin I just want to echo what Ineka said. Like her I had resolved to retire before I came here, but my mother- to whom I am eternally grateful- talked me out of it, and these past two years have ended up been the most of fun of my swimming career. When you consider I've been swimming for twenty years now, that's quite something.

Having two degrees, one from Harvard and one from Oxford, I am often asked to compare the systems of education at the two institutions. In response I usually say that it is hard to compare as they have different objectives. The Oxford system is much more personal, and teaches you a specific subject much better. The depth of education is unsurpassed. However, Harvard emphasises different approaches to knowledge and different fields- in other words, their strength is in breadth of education. I usually some up by saying that Oxford teaches you more about one thing, but Harvard teaches you less, but about everything; Or that Oxford prepares you better for a specific subject, but Harvard prepares you better for life in general.

However, when it comes to sports, few people ask me to make the comparison. It is taken for granted that the American system is superior. The well funded programmes, beautiful facilities and generous alumni are complemented by a dedicated administrative and coaching staff, who take care of everything. All the students have to do is turn up and give 100%. When we compare it to we have endured here- a lack of pool, staff, funding or support- you can't help but assume that the American system is better on the basis of this simple comparison.

And yet, I do believe that there is one critical difference that the American system lacks. Responsibility. The fiercely amateur ethos of the Oxbridge sports clubs has a great advantage. The students enjoy far greater (almost total) responsiblity for both the day to day management of the Club, and its long term-future. The Club is the students, and lives and dies by their commitment. The future of institutions that have lasted over a century and are part of the very fabric of this British nation are in the hands of callow 18-20 year olds.

But of course, when I say callow, that is what we all were before we came here. The Club transformed us all. Responsibility is the hammer which moulded us against the anvil of the Club, and forged from the raw material of young men and women the future leaders of humanity. I only have to look around this room and admire all the talent here for proof. This is the great gift of our Sports Clubs. When people ask me to compare Harvard I say, Harvard made me a better swimmer, but Oxford- Oxford has made me a better man. I urge all of you, my teammates, to remember this. The more you give to this club, the more it will give back to you. This will be the most important and rewarding experience of your life.

Thank you.