Olympic rower James Cracknell saves two lives

Olympic champion rower James Cracknell of England

Double Olympic gold medallist James Cracknell was in Devon with his son Croyde when they spotted a grandfather and his grandson who had got into trouble whilst boating. 11-year-old Croyde Cracknell saw the pair struggling, alerting his father to their predicament.

The youngster the pair saved was 7-years-old, and said to be incredibly shaken up by the incident, as he repeatedly shouted that he was “too young to die”, reports the BBC. The rower swam over to the young boy, rescuing him and bringing him back to shore.

Son Croyde helped guide the young boy’s grandfather to safety, as both of them expressed their gratitude after the incident.

The incident occured at a beach in Croyde, North Devon with which the Olympian’s son shares his name, and where the family own a home.

Cracknell's wife, TV presenter Beverly Turner also acknowledged her son and husband’s heroic act.

Eventful day with my little man on beach. Thankfully everyone safe, God to be able to help & so proud of my lad http://t.co/BMq8g3UCJs

— James Cracknell (@jamescracknell) August 9, 2015

You never know how your kids will respond in a crisis..@croydecracknell was cool, quick thinking, kind and brave. #thankgodforthat

— Beverley Turner (@beverleyturner) August 9, 2015