Newton Rower Celebrates Final Olympic Run With Silver Medal

CAMBRIDGE (CBS) – When Gevvie Stone landed at Logan International Airport last week, she did so carrying an Olympic silver medal.

The Newton native competed in the women's single sculls in her second Olympic games.

"It's been a remarkable last 8 years, yeah, it can't be better," said Stone.

Stone finished seventh in the 2012 London Olympics, but set her sights on Rio as she continued to get faster. She knew she had a chance to get to the podium this summer.

"Stepping onto the podium was unimaginable. Yes, you imagine it, but it's really a dream come true," said Stone.

But getting there – even the day of – proved to be as much as a mental game as a physical feat.

"I was very nervous for it. I woke up at 2:30 a.m. and couldn't sleep the day of the race, the final. I couldn't eat breakfast and was feeling horrible. I got an email from one of the guys I train with, who sends pumped up race emails all the time and he said, 'This race is for you. We're proud of you no matter what happens,'" Stone said.

Those 7:22:92 minutes were the most important of her career. Stone finished behind Australia's Kim Brennan.

"I'm not one for big celebrations in the boat, but I know I had a huge grin on my face. I just felt on top of the world and invincible," said Stone.

But at 31 years old, Rio would be Stone's last Olympic game. This accomplished athlete is also a doctor, and residency is her next summit.

"I don't know if I'll ever walk away from it completely, I think I'm one of those people who will be involved in it the rest of my life. I hope I'm still involved in it because I still love it. And maybe I'll be the team doctor one day. Get to go to these trips again," said Stone.

Stone will compete one final time in the Head of the Charles Regatta in October.