SJU graduate Matt Schnobrich ’01 earns bronze medal at Olympics

Saint John's University graduate Matt Schnobrich ’01 won a bronze medal Sunday as part of the U.S. men’s eight boat at the 2008 Olympics rowing competition.

Schnobrich is believed to be the first SJU student or graduate to participate in the Olympics and earn a medal.

Schnobrich’s trip to the medal stand concluded the final day of competition at the Shunyi Olympic Rowing-Canoeing Park.

After getting off the line in sixth place, the U.S. crew pushed into fourth at the 1,000-meter mark before taking third position from The Netherlands in the third quarter of the race. The U.S. continued to charge on the second-place British crew but fell just short at the line.

Canada led the race from start to finish, winning with a time of 5 minutes, 23.89 seconds. Great Britain took second in 5:25.11, followed by the U.S. in 5:25.34.

Schnobrich’s cousin, Jeff Schnobrich, is a senior running back for the Saint John’s football team.

Follow SJU alumnus Matt Schnobrich's blog at the Beijing Olympics.

Photo Credit: USRowing