Ryan Bedford is our 6th Athlete to speak to us about making the 2014 IAAF World Junior Championships Team. Members of the team will compete in Eugene (USA), from July 22nd to 27th 2014.
How did you get involved in Athletics?
After winning 100, 200 and 400 at school carnival in 2011 my sports coordinator told me I should start training as she thought I had a lot of natural ability. So I found a coach and started training and competing in oct 2011
When you first heard that you made the team, what was your initial reaction?
I was actually driving to uni and had to pull over as I thought my heart was going to jump out of my chest. My first thought was I need to tell my coach haha
Are you doing anything differently in preparation for this competition?
Just taking the next step to becoming a more professional athlete by ensuring I recover 100% from each session so I’m good for the next session.
What are you most looking forward to about the trip to Eugene (USA)?
Being in the atmosphere of world juniors in the renowned ‘track town’ with an Australian team. As well as getting to know like minded athletes
Who has been your biggest inspiration in this sport?
Cathy Freeman is the first athlete I can remember watching and the race that I always watch when I want to be inspired so probably her.
What advice would you give to someone who is looking to become a professional Athlete?
Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise from what you or your coach believes, so many people told me that it’s a boring life being an athlete but I couldn’t love my life more as I literally feel so fulfilled everytime I race and this season is nothing short of it! Because if you love it who cares what others say?
