THE DENISE LEWIS STORY
As we champion Great Britons of the future, the story of Denise Lewis is truly inspiring. Thanks to her steely determination, she triumphed on the global podium as a Gold Medal winner in the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games, against all odds.
Denise's heart-warming tale mirrors the journey that many talented Britons face. Her rise from obscurity to cement her place as a British legend makes her the perfect ambassador for the Great Britons scheme.
It all started with a dream
Denise was glued to the telly, watching the Moscow Olympics in 1980 when the seeds of ambition were planted. She was so enthralled by the performances of Daley Thompson and Sebastian Coe that she vowed to make it to the Olympics one day and be the best in the world.
Denise was just 8 years old at the time.
THE JOURNEY TO VICTORY
Keeping this goal in sharp focus, Denise embarked on a thrilling journey that saw her overcome crippling injury, suffer crushing defeat and constant challenges. Yet she still came out a winner.
Denise was competing in the Heptathlon, widely considered to be one of the most challenging combined events. So she had to strive to excel in 7 different events - 100m Hurdles, Shot Put, High Jump, 200m, Long Jump, Javelin Throw and the 800m. No mean feat.
As she competed in various tournaments, she devised a personal plan that proved to be her key to success. Aware that she could not master all 7 events, she focused on her strengths, and kept an eagle eye on her competitors and their weaknesses.
Denise first competed on the global stage at the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta. She came on as a rookie and suffered humiliating defeat in her first 5 events. Amazingly, she managed to catapult herself from 7th place to 3rd in her final two events, walking away with the Bronze medal.
By the time the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games came round, Denise was in the best shape of her career. Then disaster struck.
She suffered an injury to her Achilles tendon. After being advised by doctors not to compete, Denise began rigorous physiotherapy. Up until 2 weeks before the Games, she could only exercise her upper body as she was unable to walk.
Yet she still went on to win the Olympic Gold medal. Against all adversity, her determination and focus led to one of the most exciting and nail-biting events of the Games.
British Airways was her partner then, as we are now, and carried her to and from her successes. As a true inspiration to other aspiring Great Britons, we're pleased to have Denise onboard as we support the next generation of British talent.
A FEW WORDS OF WISDOM FROM A CHAMPION
- Keep your eye on the ball. Never for one second lose focus, especially when times are difficult.
- If you have weaknesses you are struggling to overcome, put your efforts into developing your strengths. Whatever you do, do not give up.
- Goal-setting is of paramount importance in your quest for success. Always set short and long term goals so you have something to strive for.
- Even when you reach a low point, keep trying. Knowing you can still achieve when you're down will keep driving you forward.
- Don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone.
- Lastly, enjoy every minute of it. Success is a journey.