Joel Baden is our 25th Athlete to speak to us about making the 2014 IAAF World Junior Championships Team. Members of the Spark Team will compete in Eugene (USA), from July 22nd to 27th 2014.
How did you get involved in Athletics?
From an early age I’ve participated in little athletics, which my parent’s joined me up for to ensure I was involved in some sort of physical activity, I guess. From there I kept up the hobby all the way until now, as I figured I was progressing steadily in my favorite and still my favorite event high-jump.
When you first heard that you made the team, what was your initial reaction?
After hearing I was selected for the World Junior team, I was excited, but in a sense already prepared for it as I had made the qualifiers and necessary requirements that secured my spot in the team.
Are you doing anything differently in preparation for this competition?
In preparation for the World Juniors, I guess the training workload and frequency has increased, and tidying up some technical issues that have inhibited my past performances.
What are you most looking forward to about the trip to Eugene (USA)?
The experience of competing overseas as well as just being exposed to a completely different environment than Australia will be a highlight of the trip for me, as well as forging some new friendships. Not to mention the food…
Who has been your biggest inspiration in this sport?
My inspirations are anyone who has worked hard for a goal, and then achieved it.
What advice would you give to someone who is looking to become a professional Athlete?
Be patient, good results require time, and you have to be mentally prepared for the worst, and then to recover from it.
