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Fondest career memory?
Establishing the Athlete Welfare programme at the Olympic Games. I worked on this for many years—to see it implemented in Rio in 2016 was a real career highlight for me. I hope this will protect athletes in the future, and prevent harassment and abuse in all sports!
Average weekday morning?
…. Don’t ask!! ☺
Most memorable sporting moment you’ve witnessed?
Definitely the 2008 Olympic Games when I watched the inaugural 10k marathon swim in Beijing. I witnessed a disabled swimmer—Nathalie du Toit from South Africa—compete in the able-bodied event. Her courage and strength were inspiring.
Most valuable contribution to the field?
While I could say some of the studies I have conducted, papers I have authored or the Olympic Games I have worked at, my most valuable contribution to the field is (hopefully) the help and care I give on a daily basis in my clinic to athletes of all shapes, sizes and abilities over the past 30 years.
Who is your hero?
The numerous athletes over the years that overcome adversity to strive for improvement and to reach personal goals—athletes who have overcome profound physical injury and emotional abuse issues. Their courage and fortitude make them all heroes in my eyes.
One skill that’s served you well?
Perseverance, resilience and creativity. Wait—that is three skills; I guess another skill is not following exact directions!
What have proven to be good 'career moves' (by accident or by design)?
Saying ‘yes’ when opportunities came my way. Although, in reality, I had to make some of my opportunities …
Footnotes
Competing interests None declared.
Provenance and peer review Not commissioned; internally peer reviewed.