In the final year of a PhD, Russ started rowing back in 2000. His rowing achievements include 3 victories rowing in Goldie from 2005, winning the Lady’s Plate at Henley Royal Regatta in 2005 and winning the men’s and women’s elite Fours at the Fours Head Regatta. Also an accomplished boxer, Russ gained his featherweight Boxing Blue in 2007 and was a two times District Wrestling Champion in High School. He has a strong interest in US/Chinese relations, and after completing his PhD in Chinese Studies, Russ hopes to work in US Chinese policy.

Place/DOB: 03/02/1982, Palo Alto, USA

Home Town: Camp Victory, California

College: Darwin

Nationality: American

Year Enrolled: 2005

Course: PhD Chinese Studies

Course Length: 3 years

School: Moorpack High School

Previous Uni: Brown University

Height: 1.67m

Weight: 55kg