As the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games approach, British Elite Athletes Association ambassadors and CEO have shared their top tips to help athletes make the most of their incredible opportunity.
Para-table tennis player Will Bayley, para-athlete Hannah Cockroft, and former rower Anna Watkins share their insight to inspire and guide athletes throughout their time in Paris.
Will, a four-time Paralympian and BEAA Ambassador knows the demands of elite sport well. Born with arthrogryposis and having overcome Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma as a child, Will's journey to Paralympic gold is a testament to resilience.
He recognised that “like most athletes, I put a lot of pressure on myself, but with time I’ve been able to put competition into perspective.” The Paralympian reflected upon his previous Games to emphasise that: "You can’t perform without enjoying the experience. Whether you win or not is less important than being part of the experience."
Will offers another tip to focus on the joy of being part of the Games and not let the pressure overwhelm you: “I find it helpful not to focus on my sport outside the preparation and competition time, which can help to lift the weight on your shoulders.”
Another BEAA Ambassador, Hannah Cockroft, also spoke out about the demands of the Paralympic Games. However, the multiple world record holder highlighted the positive aspects of pressure, viewing it as a reflection of a strong support network: “Remember that pressure comes from people believing in you. It’s people saying you’ve worked hard and deserve what you’re about to do.
“As athletes, only we know the journey we’ve been on: the good days, bad days, injuries and problems. As long as you can be proud of what you’ve done then everyone else will be too.”
Hannah’s journey and advice, as a dominant force in wheelchair racing, highlights the importance of maintaining a positive outlook on pressure amidst the highs and lows of competition.
Hannah also offered a practical take on preparation, encouraging athletes to maintain a sense of comfort while at the Games. She suggested taking items that make you feel at home, such as “comfort foods”, “slippers, a dressing gown, or a favourite mug.”
In addition, the BEAA Ambassador emphasised that food is “something athletes often worry about, but rest assured there’s a huge range to eat – and it’s always available”. However, Hannah suggested that if there's something specific you love, it's a good idea to pack it beforehand. These small comforts can make a significant difference in feeling more at ease when away from home.
Finally, Anna Watkins, BEAA CEO and London 2012 Olympic champion, understands the importance of remaining enthusiastic throughout the Games. She encourages athletes to embrace the excitement and the unique experience it offers: "The world has built us athletes a playground,” she says. “Embracing the excitement of that was the most useful tool against the nerves.
“Another thought that helped a lot was that our boat (or track or equipment) doesn’t know the occasion is any different, and you can rely on all your experience even if it might be your first Games. I remember feeling like an imposter at my first in 2008 but that wasn’t true. If you’re there you deserve to be there and you can own it.”
Above all, Will Bayley says: “Enjoy this special, unique opportunity from Kitting Out onwards. You want to go home and say: ‘I enjoyed that. I loved every second of it.’ That’s very important, regardless of your results.”
Remember, the BEAA team is here to provide expert, independent advice and support throughout Paris 2024 and beyond.
