As I look back on the 2024 Para Marathon Kayaking season, I’m filled with gratitude and a sense of accomplishment. This journey has been nothing short of remarkable, thanks to the unwavering support of my sponsors and partners. Your belief in me was the driving force behind my successes, even when faced with significant challenges along the way.
Overcoming Setbacks: Winter Training and Surgeries
The road to the 2024 season was not a straightforward one. The 2023/24 winter training period was marred by setbacks, including surgeries on both my foot and shoulder. These procedures were essential, yet they disrupted my training plan and forced me to pause and reassess my approach to the sport. Instead of allowing these challenges to derail my progress, I used the downtime to focus on areas within my control—my mindset, body composition, and nutrition.
During this recovery phase, I embraced new fasting and nutrition protocols that transformed my training regimen. I shed 20kg, reduced inflammation, and saw significant improvements in my power-to-weight ratio. This shift wasn't just about losing weight; it was about refining my approach to physical pain and building a stronger mental framework to push beyond previous limits.
Breaking Records: The 2024 GB Trials and European Championships
All the hard work culminated in a breakthrough performance at the GB trials. I clocked personal bests across the board, shaving a remarkable 20% off my previous times from the 2023 season. This achievement was not just a testament to my training, but also a validation of the new methods I had implemented.
With renewed confidence, I took on the European Championships in Poland, where I had the privilege of representing Great Britain once again. I secured a gold medal, significantly closing the gap on a competitor who had been well ahead of me the previous year. This win was a turning point, showing me just how much progress I had made despite the adversities.
A Battle for the Podium: World Championships in Croatia
The World Championships in Croatia proved to be the most challenging race of my career. The field was stacked with talented young athletes, many of them half my age, making the competition stiffer than ever. Going into the race, I was in the best form of my life and determined to hold my own against the younger competitors.
The 11km course pushed me to my limits, yet I managed to stay with the lead pack, holding onto second place throughout the race. I crossed the finish line in 59 minutes, a full 11 minutes faster than my time at last year’s World Championships.
I narrowly missed the gold, finishing just seconds behind an 18-year-old French athlete. To be this competitive at the age of 52, especially after undergoing surgeries in the off-season, was an achievement I will always cherish.
Looking Ahead: New Challenges and Big Ambitions
As Para Marathon Canoeing continues to grow in recognition, the upcoming 2025 season brings exciting opportunities. Next year will mark the first official World and European Marathon Championships for the Para Classes, and I’m committed to training harder than ever to be on those start lines.
However, the path forward remains uncertain. Recent scans revealed that the last two surgeries on my left foot were not entirely successful.
Despite having 12 screws and a plate, the bone has not fused properly, leaving me with a persistent fracture. Amputation was discussed as a potential solution, but I am not ready to take that step. Instead, we are planning a complex reconstructive surgery in early 2025, which will involve a bone graft from my hip, along with a new plate and screws to stabilize the joint. The recovery will sideline me for at least three months, but I am resolute in my goal to return to racing by the summer season.
A Heartfelt Thanks to My Supporters
None of this would have been possible without the incredible support from my sponsors and partners. Haydock Finance, Onsite Recruitment and Invevo have all been so helpful in supporting me this last year. Your encouragement and assistance have been the backbone of my journey, helping me rise above the challenges and achieve new milestones. As I prepare for the 2025 season, I carry with me the lessons learned, the victories won, and the unwavering determination to come back stronger.
From the Water to Mindset Coaching: Turning Personal Triumphs into Tools for Transformation with Zenval
This journey of overcoming setbacks, refining my approach, and continuously pushing my limits is also the driving force behind my work as a mindset coach with Zenval. Sharing the principles of improved human performance and resilience isn't just a career for me—it's a calling.
I’m dedicated to helping others break through their own barriers and transform their lives, just as I’ve transformed mine. Together, we'll continue striving for excellence and living empowered, purpose-driven lives.
Thank you for being part of my story, and for sharing in the triumphs and trials of this season.
Here’s to a future filled with new challenges, greater victories, and a continued passion for the sport we love.
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