Sports International Magazine issue12

The Pro Sports Magazine November 2014

New Zealand Rugby 7’s Sunshine Ladies Tour, Extreme Sailing, Sophie Radcliffe, Ashleigh Simon, Dame Sarah Storey Exclusive Interviews & Articles

SIM Unsung Hero, 2014 FAWSL, 5 Surprising Food Facts!

Recipe, top tips and more...

November 2014 1

2 November 2014

SPORTS

TM

International WELCOME The first issue of the magazine came out two years ago, published as my response to all the amazing stories I heard of and from athletes around the word whom I had taken photos of as a photographer. I felt that these stories needed to be told and celebrated the world over but I had no idea if and how it would work. Now thousands of people around the world read the magazine and blogs, with new readers finding the magazine daily. All of this has been done by word of mouth and for that I am amazed. Hearing of schools in Africa using the magazines for education or being contacted by people wanting to tell me of an athlete they know who has a good story, is great. It’s a real privilege doing this job and I want to thank all the readers and supporters for making this what it is.

SPORTS

I am at present in the process of developing the website into something unique and look forward to being able to tell you more about that next time..

I am also very pleased to announce that from this issue forward the Solheim Cup will be covered in conjunction with the Ladies European Tour until the tournament in September next.

This is a unique approach to a tournament and we are looking forward to providing behind the scenes images and articles in the build-up.

TM

International

Our cover stars are Kayla Mc McAllister and Sarah Goss, not only IRB Player of the year nominees, but part of the remarkable New Zealand Rugby 7’s team that I have been fortunate enough to spend a lot of unrestricted time with over the last few years. As well that, this issue features an athlete with seventy two world records and still going strong, a review of the FAWSL season, Golf, Football, a post World Cup Rugby alternative review and the extraordinary achievement of Sophie Radcliffe.

This issue introduces a new sport as well: Extreme Sailing - what a rush that is!

January will see another big announcement and I look forward to bringing that to you, in the meantime please read, share and enjoy this issue!

Myak-Paul Homberger - Editor

November 2014 Issue No 012

November 2014 3

Papaya P h o t o g r a p h y

S P O R T S ● S P E C I A L I S T E V E N T S ● C O R P O R AT E E V E N T S

www.papayaphotography.co.uk

4 November 2014

SPORTS

TM

International Contents

SPORTS

The secret of their success, Sista’s are doing it!

8

TM

Sista’s success 14 Sista’s Stats 16 Sunshine Ladies Tour 20

International

Sports International Magazine’s Outstanding Athlete

34

2014 FASWL Season review 42 Coast to Coast: Sophie Radcliffe 52 5 Surprising food facts 68 Foreign Players positive contributions 71 2014 Womens Rugby 15’s World Cup

76

Inspiring Women 86 Cup Captains Confer at Gleneagles

88

Ashleigh Simon & David Buhai 99 Sports International Magazine’s Unsung Hero

106

Extreme Sailing 110 Recipes and Tips 118 Thankyou’s 120 Contact 121

November 2014 Issue No 012

November 2014 5

Contributors Myak-Paul Homberger Aside from being a huge sports nut and champion of women’s sport, has numerous qualifications including being a BAWLA qualified weight training coach, two martial arts black belts alongside his instructor level in Urban Krav Maga. He is also an NLP practitioner and sociologist with an HND in RAB. Photography is his main passion and he has been published internationally. Myak has worked with men’s and women’s national teams, as well as with premiership teams and individual players.

6 November 2014

Adam Barlow Adam Barlow’s passion for football began in 1994 watching Lincoln City in the lower leagues of the English football league system.

In 2008 he took up blogging and started watching more semi professional football in order to gain an insight into the game at grass roots as he was keen to develop his understanding of the game at all levels. Watching the England Women’s team play and beat Serbia in a European Championship qualifier at Doncaster in 2011, he was very impressed by the skill of the players and quickly made the decision to learn and write more about women’s football.

In 2012 he attended his first FAWSL game at Lincoln Ladies and started writing as the official fans’ blogger on the website. As time went on he became more engrossed in both writing and the women’s game, writing articles for the website and helping to compose the player profiles for the website. He now regularly reports for Sports International Magazine and would like to help give women’s sport the platform it deserves.

Away from football his other sporting passion is Taekwondo, having trained in the sport since 1989 and achieving the rank of third Dan Black Belt and helping in the running of classes.

Catherine Spencer Catherine Spencer is a former England Rugby Captain and so brings a vast experience of sport and being a woman in sport. She recognised the potential for organisations that could benefit greatly from the stories of inspiring women, their determination, belief, focus, trust, leadership, communication, hard work, team work and sacrifice.

Catherine set about sourcing Inspiring Women speakers and coaches from sport and business who she believed could communicate their stories and lessons effectively.

Bethan Cutler Media manager LET tour Bethan has previously featured as our Unsung Hero as well as contributing to the magazine.

She works across the globe for the LET Golf tour, and with events from England to Dubai and Australia she is one the busiest media managers around. As well as this, she has organized six Solheim Cup Events.

November 2014 7

Photo: Papaya Photography

The Secret

of their success

Sista’s are doing it!

8 November 2014

New Zealand Rugby 7’s

by Myak Homberger

The New Zealand Rugby 7’s team has delivered more points, tries and has more players in the top stats than any other country. Not just for one game or one season but since 7’s began. World cup winners and Women’s Sevens World Series winners two years in a row, as well as two players nominated for player of the year this year (our front cover), this is a team that has earned the right boast and yet they are amongst the most down to earth and humble you will meet.

I have been privileged to spend time with and around the team from its inception and have observed how they are and how they operate, so this article isn’t written from a casual one tournament point of view but as a result of significant time with them.

If pictures tell a thousand words then looking through all my photos from the last two seasons ahead of this article tells a story without the need for words. Every photo from ‘behind the scenes,’ no matter what is happening, has at least two players interacting with each other: one getting a massage while another is talking to them, them braiding each other’s hair, one injured then another helping them and ensuring they are included, plus many other such moments.

This is not just a team; it’s a group of players who follow the same code. As Sean Horan, the team coach says, “...we call it our family values”.

This is a set of values and plans that they have all bought into and are fully committed to. Not only the players but all of the management team share these values. Listening to any of them talk and it’s the same across the board: they are a family, they share the values and goals and support and allow each other to do their jobs. It’s about the privilege and about giving back to this generation, as Hannah Porter (team manager) said. Rather than being on a winning team, it’s about being part of a team that matters.

Even when talking to the two IRB player of the year nominations and cover stars, this issue’s Kayla Mcallister and Sara Goss, the message is the same. “It’s about the team, there’s no competition amongst us, it’s teamwork”. “From day one we have said it’s about family, it’s a team sport and you can’t get over the line without them, so that’s everyone from the office to management through to the team,” adds Portia Woodman. “That’s just how we roll!” she adds.

Photo: Papaya Photography

November 2014 9

Photo: Papaya Photography

This may be how the team rolls but how do you get there? When recruiting players, top of the list is character. Sean Horan is very clear on this: “it’s the first box we tick. We have amazing athletes in New Zealand but if they don’t fit the character, then no thanks.”

Some may think it’s a bold move in sport, where one so often sees skill being put ahead of character - but it pays off for them. The reason this team works is because they all support and buy into the values and vision. There is no doubt when they are on the field that they are all giving their best because (as they call themselves) they are ‘sistas’ and they understand their individual as well as their combined roles and there is no competition between them.

By far the most remarkable thing about the team is Sean’s mantra and how the team operates. “It’s not about performance, it’s about a plan. It’s about life and rugby. If we believe in the plan, have the right characters, the right environment and the right infrastructure, then we need to just focus on those things.”

Sean isn’t putting the players under pressure to win; in fact it’s not even mentioned. It’s all about the right foundation and ensuring that 10 November 2014

Photo:Papaya PapayaPhotography Photography Photo:

November 2014 11

it is correct. In so doing the paradigm shift for many is that actually you end up with a team that wins - and yet they do it with such humility. Why? Because they did it together, they laid a foundation and it paid off - BUT that is balanced by life off the field and who they are as well. This does come from the right base - but if you watch Sean, he spends huge amounts of time 1 on 1 with players.

As he says, it’s his philosophy: “...you need to talk to people and not at them.”

Having said all of the above, that in no way diminishes the fact that they desire to win or their enjoyment of it - and the expectation from fans back home is clear: they put on the black jersey and they are expected to win and win by a lot and in style.

This is a team and management that all hold the same values, focus on each other and have emotionally invested into the team. This makes for something very powerful and very valuable and allows them to have perspective, which keeps them grounded despite who they are and what they have achieved. What motivates them, according to Sean is “...it’s the look in their eyes, we are a family and you do it for them.” You can’t say more than that. A remarkable team and ethos, I feel honoured to have spent time and built the relationship that I have with them.

Photo: Papaya Photography

12 November 2014

Photo: Papaya Photography

November 2014 13

Sista’s Success 10 key points be a NZ 7’s player • Character • High standards • High morals • Respectful • Humble • It’s not just about Rugby, it’s about life • It’s not about performance, its about a plan • Players need to make an emotional investment • Believe in what you are doing • Individual accountability

14 November 2014

Photo: Papaya Photography

November 2014 15

Sista’s STATS

• Most points scored by a team both years of the WSWS • Most players in the all-time points list of any country WSWS • More tries scored by players on the all time list than any other country WSWS • Only list that players don’t feature on, most points scored

Photo: Papaya Photography

16 November 2014

• • • • • • •

by an individual in one game WSWS Won Rugby 7’s world cup 2013 Won back to back world series titles Highest for/against ratio of any team ever 120/0 (2009 world cup) Highest for/against ratio of any team for both world cups 95/5 (2013 world cup) Player with most tries 2009 and 2013 world cups Player with most points scored 2009 and 2013 world cups More player of the year nominations than any other country

NZ 7’s doing the HAKKA November 2014 17

th

5/6/7

5 1 0 2 e Jun

NEW E T I S WEB

M a E T D r I W B O y N l E r sun, l e h B T Ea ! t a l I a blas it much a e r V a a s 0 Ibiza 1 mbuca made o ENTry gs t d sa

sea an From wild do is trip will ne’s e o y r e v E easier. side steps th za is th i b I f o idea he raves, moan oint. a S t disapp clubs, ey, the bars t o n n the mo taturants, here. tor, t s i l i a ery det tch commenta and res our and the v E m e ma ay screen, h t the gla ell that’s m o r F W nt pl stalls, a t s n i boats. e if you want huge d, market e all ther ow there’s tan f cours s o J d D n a it but n t of festival stands ments. d o o f efresh at its best! r the bes o. d i u q i l o rugby r e rugby t m Sum

Official Kit Supplier

Log on to www.rugbyspy.com and buy your tickets or contact us for group bookings or team entry at info@rugbyspy.co.uk.

18 November 2014

www.rugbyspy.com

www.facebook.com/RugbySpy

twitter.com/RugbySpy

“If opportunity doesn’t knock, build a door.”

- Milton Berle

SPORTS

TM

International

November 2014 19

Sunshine Ladies Tour

by Myak Homberger Womens Golf in Southern Africa is hotting up! The oldest womens

professional tournament in Africa, dating back to 1988, is The South African Women’s Open. New and improved, The Cell C South African Women’s Open is rapidly growing since its return to the international schedule with an increased field, playing for more prize money on an upgraded golf course. As well as this, for the third year now the Ladies European Tour (LET) will be co-

sanctioning the SA Women’s Open which will be televised at San Lameer Golf Estate from 16-19 October 2014. This is great news for

the country’s leading professionals competing alongside a strong

international contingent as well as ten South African amateurs.

As Margie Whitehouse, Women’s Professional Golf Association

(WPGA) Chairman explains, “Women’s professional golf in South

Africa was in a wasteland since 2009, but the return of the South African Women’s Open as a Ladies European Tour co-sanctioned event in April 2012, sparked a revival in the sport.”

Added to this, the televising of the tournament will be providing

the sponsors of the event with a payback in their belief in the tournament and also for the vision of the WPGA to “...excite and

encourage our young golfers and cultivate a whole new focus for 20 November 2014

Photo courtesy Sunshine Ladies Tour Photo: Papaya Photography

November 2014 21

Photo courtesy Sunshine Ladies Tour

women’s golf in South Africa”. This is a real standout part of what the WPGA are doing, encouraging and wanting to see growth in ground level womens golf in Southern Africa - and that’s really

exciting to see, not only because it gives children an outlet but also because it empowers the next generation. Let’s not forget

“...excite and encourage our young golfers and cultivate a whole new focus for women’s golf in South Africa” that South Africa has provided a good heritage of female golfers, just look at the LET tour currently.

The international field has been increased from 108 to 126 players

this year and will feature such stars as South Africa’s Lee-Anne

Pace, Ashleigh Simon and Stacy Bregman; English professional 22 November 2014

and 23-time Ladies European Tour winner Trish Johnson; American Cheyenne Woods; and defending champion Marianne Skarpnord

from Norway. We have covered many of the Ladies European Tour players and events in the magazine and it’s great to see a great

deal of support for the tour not only from South African based players on the LET tour but also from many others.

The golfers will be playing for a total purse of R4.5 million, an

increase of nearly half a million rand on the 2013 tournament’s

prize money. The winner will take home R675,000, and the golfers

will compete on a San Lameer Country Club course which has recently been upgraded.

Photo courtesy Sunshine Ladies Tour

November 2014 23

“...women’s sport is an uncluttered market commercially, and we look forward to showcasing some of South Africa’s top female golfers as athletes and individuals.”

The other interesting thing about the SA Women’s Open is the strong support from the corporate sector - the WPGA have really

connected with them and it shows the huge growth in the series during last couple of years. Importantly, the corporate sector can see

the vision and are supporting it all the way - but most interestingly,

they can see the potential in womens sport. As Heather Casey

from Investec said, “...women’s sport is an uncluttered market commercially, and we look forward to showcasing some of South Africa’s top female golfers as athletes and individuals.”

As if this wasn’t enough, in February 2014 The Womens PGA of

South Africa (WPGA) entered a new era in women’s professional golf in South Africa by kicking off with the new Sunshine Ladies

Tour. The Sunshine Ladies Tour has six qualifying tournaments, with sponsorship coming from big name business including Investec, Sun International, SuperSport and Dimension Data. These six events culminate in the inaugural Chase to the Investec Cup for Ladies. WPGA chairman Margie Whitehouse has been the driving

force behind the Sunshine Ladies Tour and it is a testament to her and the team for what has been achieved such a short amount

of time. Prior to this players had to seek a competitive platform 24 November 2014

Photo courtesy Sunshine Ladies Tour

Photo: Papaya Photography

November 2014 25

Photos courtesy Sunshine Ladies Tour

26 November 2014

Photo courtesy Sunshine Ladies Tour

November 2014 27

Photo courtesy Sunshine Ladies Tour

28 November 2014

Photos courtesy Sunshine Ladies Tour

November 2014 29

Photo courtesy Sunshine Ladies Tour

abroad on other tours. The first thing the WPGA did was to create

a local competitive platform for the South African players and amateurs.Â

South African number one Lee-Anne Pace claimed the inaugural Investec Cup for Ladies this March, just weeks before she was

named the WPGA Player of the Year and the Golfer of Year at the

Compleat Golfer Annual Awards. The eight-time Ladies European Tour champion will be playing alongside defending champion Marianne Skarpnord of Norway and American Cheyenne Wood.

The overriding thing of all the events for me is that the WPGA wants

to create events that will stand on their own as annual celebrations of success amongst women and golf, not just another tournament - and that is an exciting prospect for sport and womens golf. I look

forward with great interest to see how these events will grow and all the new talent that will emerge as a result.

30 November 2014

Photo courtesy Sunshine Ladies Tour Photo: Papaya Photography

November 2014 31

iams Kim Will

mpion

Tandi V on Rub

Stacey

Bregma

n

en

ies Cha Lee-An ne Investe Pace c Cup fo r Lad

Ashleig

h Simo

n

Moniqu

e Smit

The WPGA would like to thank all for the successful launch of the

OFFICIAL SPONSORS

32 ALL November 2014LIVE SCORING AND LATEST ACTION I www.sunshineladiestour.com THE EVENTS,

“It is in your moments of decision that your destiny is shaped.�

- Tony Robbins

SPORTS

TM

International

November 2014 33

SPORTS

TM

International

Photo: Papaya Photography

34 November 2014

OUTSTANDING

AT H L E T E Dame Sarah Storey

By Myak Homberger

Our Outstanding athlete for this issue is the amazing Dame Sarah Storey. The question is: where to start, given her twenty three years as an international athlete?

Dame Sarah Storey has won 11 Gold, 8 Silver and 3 Bronze medals across a mind boggling 6 Paralympic Games; she has World and Paralympic Gold medals in two sports [swimming and cycling] - and just to add spice, they are in 11 different events [6 in the pool and 5 on a bike]. In total she has: • • • • • • •

11 Paralympic Gold Medals [5 swimming, 6 cycling] 8 Silver Medals [swimming] 3 Bronze Medals [swimming] 20 World Championship titles [6 swimming, 14 cycling] 7 World Cup titles [5 Paracycling, 2 able-bodied cycling] 21 European titles [18 swimming, 3 cycling] More than 140 National titles [3 able-bodied National titles on the track] • 72 World Records Having spent a small amount of time with Sarah, the stand-out thing about her is how incredibly down to earth and humble she is.

This doesn’t belie her grit and determination - which is clear in her results - but there is a sense of a world class athlete about her. Sarah talked about cycling, the crowds, winning and all the things athletes talk about - but when you listen to her everything comes back to a love for what she is doing and the fact that she doesn’t take it for granted. “I’m very privileged to be doing what I’m doing - there are so many opportunities with this sport,” she said.

Photo: Papaya Photography

November 2014 35

Photo: Papaya Photography Photo: Papaya Photography

36 November 2014

Photo: Papaya Photography

This is something you would expect from a fresh young athlete at the start of her career and yet, twenty three international years later Sarah still has this view and focus. Medals and winning are what

“I’m very privileged to be doing what I’m doing there are so many opportunities with this sport,” athletes are there for, but an outstanding athlete is about more than that and Sarah’s perspective shows a depth of character and humility that makes her stand out. To still have that freshness and excitement for sport and the gratitude for what it provides is lovely to observe.

This theme continued through all the other things we talked about, November 2014 37

from representing her country and the privilege she felt wearing the GB jersey, through to what it means to be a team captain and the role she seeks to play in the team. Sarah is a passionate, straight

“It’s not a bunch of girls with baskets on their bikes riding around,”

love for what she does. It was a privilege to spend a small amount of time with her.

Having observed first-hand the Olympics, Paralympics, Commonwealth games and Pearl Izumi Tour and seen the level of passion, blood sweat and tears the female cyclists demonstrate, I know they will appreciate Dame Sarah Storey’s final quote on women’s cycling. “It’s not a bunch of girls with baskets on their bikes riding around,” she says. She certainly isn’t and nor are any of the others!

talking athlete who is a consummate professional in all she does, but with this incredible ability to be completely grounded and overflowing with a

DameH SARA Y E STOR

Congratulations to ...

DAME Sarah Storey,

our outstanding sportswoman! We’re proud supporters of women’s sport around the world!

It was great to have Charlotte as our special guest to celebrate her award at Spur!

Visit a Spur Restaurant and try our mouth-watering steaks, perfectly basted ribs, crisp salads, delicious burgers and flame-grilled chicken!

Check out our awesome weekday specials and our store locator at:

38 November 2014

Photo: Papaya Photography

November 2014 39

WATCH ENGLAND WOMEN FOLLOW IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF BOBBY MOORE AS THEY PLAY AT THE NEW WEMBLEY STADIUM FOR THE FIRST TIME. #OURTIMEISNOW 40 November 2014

Sunday 23 November 2014, 3pm

ENGLAND v GERMANY WOMEN

WOMEN

TICKETS ON SALE NOW AT THEFA.COM/TICKETS ADULTS £15, CHILDREN £1

November 2014 41

2014

FASWL

Season Review

42 November 2014

Photo: Papaya Photography

By Adam Barlow The race for the FAWSL title was one of the most exciting on record. If anybody was in doubt about how the game is growing here in England then this season showed how far standards have risen with the league being ultra competitive right to the end. With 45 minutes of the season to go three sides could have won the title.

In the end Liverpool defended their title pipping Chelsea to the championship by virtue of having a better goal difference.

Birmingham City defied all expectations this season and off the back of a fantastic Champions League campaign which saw them reach the semi finals, they led the table for the first two thirds of the season only suffering their first league defeat at Chelsea in early August. After a busy off season and some great player signings like striker Rachel Williams, Chelsea were also serious contenders throughout. Last season’s champions Liverpool had a slow start to the season with injuries to key players hitting them hard. Although as the season went on they started to show the qualities that made them champions in 2013. On the penultimate weekend of the season Chelsea were 10 minutes away from the championship.

However late goals for Liverpool and Birmingham meant that all 3 could have won the league with one game to play. So on the last game of the season, Chelsea knew that if they won at Manchester City they would become Champions.

November 2014 43

Chelsea were certainly in the driving seat going into the final round of games but found themselves 2-0 down at HT as it looked like the occasion was starting to get to them.

The pressure was also telling on second placed Birmingham who trailed Notts County 2-1 at HT and also had a penalty saved by Notts Keeper Carly Telford. Liverpool meanwhile were drawing 0-0 with Bristol. In the second half Liverpool stepped up and rode to a comfortable 3-0 win which with both Birmingham and Chelsea failing to win sent them top of the table.

Elsewhere Chelsea got a goal back and Birmingham drew level but neither could find the elusive goal that would have seen them win 44 November 2014

Photo: Papaya Photography

November 2014 45

the championship. In the end Liverpool held their nerve to collect their second championship in a row. A feat that had looked so improbable when they were 3-1 down at Arsenal with 20 minutes to play a week before. Chelsea claimed the second champions league spot for the first time in their history but it will be of little consolation to the Blues.

Apart from the title race the big story of the season was Arsenal. For so long the dominant force in Women’s football, the club found itself rock bottom of the league at the midseason break without a league win to its name; a position that would be almost unthinkable in times gone by.

This led to manager Shelly Kerr leaving the club, but not before she guided them to a second successive FA Cup final win. John Bayer was appointed interim head coach and got off to a great start with a 1-0 win at Liverpool. Slowly but surely the club moved towards mid-table. With safety assured and a place in the Continental cup final achieved the club named Pedro Martinez

Photo: Papaya Photography

46 November 2014

Losa as permanent first team manager. It was a happy end to one of the strangest seasons in the club’s history.

After coming so close to winning the title in 2013 Bristol had a much quieter time of it in 2014; never really being in the relegation fight but not involved in the scrap for honours either. Given that the club appointed a new manager so close to the start of the season this transition has to be viewed as some kind of success and a good platform on which to build on going forward.

During the pre-season two newcomers were making waves. Manchester City really signalled their intent by signing England internationals such as Jill Scott, Steph Houghton, Karen Bardsley and Toni Duggan. Despite all this the club got off to a slow start and sat bottom of the table early on in the season. However a great 1-0 Photo: Papaya Photography

win at Arsenal kick started their season and they finished comfortably safe of the relegation scrap.

Add in the fact the club reached the Continental

Photo: Papaya Photography

November 2014 47

Cup final and some of the great work going off behind the scenes, it all adds up for a successful first season at this level; definitely a club to watch going into 2015.

This was also Notts County’s first season in the FAWSL since their rebrand from Lincoln at the end of 2013. Like Manchester City they too made major moves in the transfer market with striker Ellen White being the most eye-catching.

However, White suffered an injury in pre-season which kept her out for the entire season. Notts were defensively one of the best in the league, but goals were hard to come by and the club hovered just above the relegation zone all year.

The Magpies saved themselves in September though when they defeated Chelsea 1-0 and fellow strugglers Everton 2-0 as they finished the season strongly. There is a lot of great work going at Meadow Lane and the club enjoyed some healthy attendances. If they had had better luck with injuries their league position would have been much better.

2014 also saw the introduction of relegation and it was one of the longest serving top flight clubs that ended up in that dreaded bottom spot. Everton have a proud history in women’s football but 2014 was one of the worst in the club’s history as they failed to win a league game and gaining only four points all season. The club has lost a series of quality players to sides like Liverpool and Manchester City in recent times and relied on bringing through young players from the academy. Reaching the FA Cup final was a highpoint but a 3-0 defeat to Arsenal was a damaging experience for this young team and they never really recovered from it and were relegated with two matches still to play.

48 November 2014

November 2014 49

50 November 2014

“Enthusiasm moves the world.”

- Arthur Balfour

SPORTS

TM

International

November 2014 51

52 November 2014

Coastto

Coast

Sophie Radcliffe Interview and article by Myak Homberger

The Alpine Coast to Coast adventure is

Sophie Radcliffe’s latest adventure. In rare company, Sophie is only the second person

ever to be featured more than once in the magazine. The first time we talked about her and all of her various adventures, this time it is to showcase her extraordinary achievement with the Coast to Coast challenge.Â

The Alpine Coast to Coast challenge

involved cycling the eight alpine countries and climbing their highest mountains over

the course of four weeks. From Trieste in Italy through Slovenia, Austria, Lichtenstein, Germany, Italy, Switzerland and France,

finishing in Monaco. This includes over Photo courtesy Sophie Radcliffe

1600 kms of cycling through the Alps with November 2014 53

Photo courtesy Sophie Radcliffe

54 November 2014

stunning scenery and lots of hills! As well as

141km of climbing, 45,000m of assent and

a lot of food. This became the longest and

toughest ride of Sophie’s career to date.

Not only is this remarkable for the sheer feat

that it is, but that it has never been done before. Sophie has gone into the record

books as the first and only person in history, male or female, to cycle the eight Alpine

countries and climb their highest mountains

in one push. That deserves huge amounts of Photo courtesy Sophie Radcliffe

respect for all she has achieved.

“….it showed me that we can achieve anything, like water. It always finds a way through obstacles and so I ask: how can I get through this obstacle?”

For Sophie her motivation wasn’t about

setting a world record or becoming the first Photo courtesy Sophie Radcliffe

to do something that just happens to be the

icing on the cake. This was about Sophie pushing herself, about her adventure and

yet another learning curve for her on her journey through life. Sophie was very clear

through the whole conversation that this was about more than an adventure; it was about growing as a person, being open to changing

as a person. This is a holistic approach to adventuring (if I could coin the phrase?) if ever there was one. This is where there is both an adventure and an achievement at

the end, but this is only part of what the person is wanting from the experience, it

November 2014 55

Photo courtesy Sophie Radcliffe

56 November 2014

Photo courtesy Sophie Radcliffe

November 2014 57

Photos courtesy Sophie Radcliffe

58 November 2014

“….we all have a toolbox that we carry through life that we use to get through challenges, by using our skills.”

November 2014 59

is also about wanting to learn about themselves and grow.

This was paramount for Sophie and in so doing, she not only

achieved her goal but has learned a great deal about herself and has propelled herself onto her next stage in her journey.

“Can I do it?” was the question Sophie asked each day,

propelling herself through thirty-one days of physical and

emotional limits and in doing so she was empowered by the

feeling of being able to achieve each step along the way.

60 November 2014

There may have been a huge impact on her body, but she surprised herself even with the ability to push through to the point where her body adapted to the rigours. Each day was not only about getting from A to B but all that lay

in between, from elements to emotions to hills

but also about her continual growth as a person in all the challenges she faced. Sophie said “….it showed me that we can achieve anything, like

water. It always finds a way through obstacles and so I ask: how can I get through this

obstacle?” She continued by saying that “….we

all have a toolbox that we carry through life that

we use to get through challenges, by using our skills.” For Sophie the toolbox grows and the

ability to use the tools in it grows and makes her more adept at dealing with new situations - and

her tool box has definitely been upgraded on this adventure!

There are always two schools of thought for

most things in life and planning is most definitely one of those. Sophie falls into the ‘don’t like to

plan’ school of thought that believes that taking each day and planning on that day and focusing on that day has huge benefits. This is how she Photo courtesy Sophie Radcliffe

operated on the Coast to Coast challenge.

“Let’s get on with it,” she says of her planning.

The upsides for her were that everyday brought

new surprises and adventure, it also allowed her to focus on that day rather that on the whole plan and in many ways meant she enjoyed that day more because of it.

The interest thing is that prior to attempting to climb Mont Blanc for the second time and

only a few days short of completing the whole November 2014 61

adventure, she started to look to the finish

and wonder if by pushing herself to do this assent (she had by this stage contracted a

bad cold) she would compromise the balance of the trip. This thought and the cold pulled

her down. However, this is what separates the good from the great and at this point she

did two key things: firstly she allowed herself the emotion. “You need to let yourself feel,

you are pushing yourself and body so much,” Sophie said. This allowed for her to not use

extra energy fighting the feeling or emotions

but to go with it, to understand why she was feeling like that and then deal with it. The result…she learned more about herself and

in so doing could do the second key thing: to remember what she was doing and focus her

mind back to the challenge of the day, not on tomorrow, and to go on with the challenge.

Having asked herself, “can I do this today?” and having answered yes, she could leave concerns about tomorrow behind.

The thing that stood out for me, following

Sophie as she was on her coast to coast adventure, was the openness and honesty

“You need to let yourself feel, you are pushing yourself and body so much,” with which she conducted herself. Sharing her ups and downs, triumphs and emotions with all, never allowing herself to hide

behind an ‘adventurer’ title. “I think it’s really 62 November 2014

Photo courtesy Sophie Radcliffe

November 2014 63

Photo courtesy Sophie Radcliffe

64 November 2014

important to share your ups and downs. I want people to take something from it. If they see I’m totally normal maybe they will think they can do something extraordinary,” she

says of her desire to be grounded and to be transparent with her emotions and the challenges she faces.

I love this about her and this for me sums Sophie up best. She

is an adventurer who is doing it in order to grow and learn

more about herself, rather than for the fame or glory. But more importantly than even that, she wants to engage with

people. She wants to encourage others to get involved and to achieve things they thought were not achievable for them.

This was only a small nuance within the conversation and

almost missed, yet these words confirm her true desire: “If people see I’m normal they can do something extraordinary.”

She is ‘normal’ and wants to see others encouraged to be

extraordinary, she is wanting to put them ahead and above her. Surely this selflessness and desire to improve those

around you is what makes people stand out from the crowd and become an inspiration to others.

“If they see I’m totally normal maybe they will think they can do something extraordinary,”

November 2014 65

SPORTS

TM

International Photo courtesy: rugbymatters.co.uk

SPORTS

International 66 November 2014

TM

Congratulations to the England Women’s Rugby team on winning the World Cup 2014!

November 2014 67

5

Surprising Food Facts

1

Prunes rate much higher than blueberries in terms of antioxidants

Although much publicity has been given to the anti-oxidant capacity of blueberries, a lesser known fact is that prunes have more than twice that of blueberries, raisins or raspberries and rate second only to Goji berries and black raspberries.

The ORAC (Oxygen Radical Absorbency Capacity) scale rates the anti-oxidant capacity of foods in units. On this scale prunes measure 5,770 units, whereas blueberries measure 2,400 and red raspberries 2,400.

Apart from their anti-oxidant capacity, prunes also are very healthy: they are a good source of dietary fibre, protect against

Brazil nuts are the richest dietary source of selenium and just one or two Brazil nuts a day can provide the recommended daily requirement.

Selenium is a powerful anti-oxidant that can improve cardiovascular health and fight cancer.

It protects against toxic chemicals by combining with them and aiding their removal from the body.

Selenium can also increase muscle strength: in a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition researchers tested the hip flexion, leg extension and grip strength of 891 subjects and found that those with high selenium levels were

osteoporosis and osteopenia

stronger than those with lower selenium

and may help support bone

levels.

health; they have a low GI

Brazil nuts are also a good source of

rating and are a good source

Vitamin E. (However, don’t regularly eat

of Vitamins A and K as well as

more than two nuts a day as selenium

potassium, copper, boron and

can accumulate in the body and have a

magnesium.

68 November 2014

2

Just one Brazil nut a day can provide your recommended daily intake of Selenium

negative effect on health.)Â Image: nutfruit.org

3

There’s more to lemon skins than the flavour

peel and include carotenoids, which reduce the risk of heart disease, keep arteries healthy and prevent the oxidation of ‘bad’ cholesterol; and

It may seem that the main use of

beta carotene, which is converted into Vitamin A

lemon peel is the flavour imparted by the zest -

in the body, promoting eye health and guarding

not so!

against infection.

Lemon skins contain phenolic compounds which are found mainly in the peel; many of these compounds are antioxidants which promote health and help prevent degenerative diseases.

Some of the antioxidants found in lemon pigments are even more effective than Vitamin

4

Healthy Onions: so much more than a tasty ingredient!

Onions contain flavanoids such as

C. The highest concentration of the flavanoids

quercetin, a more powerful antioxidant than

found in lemons are in the peel and

Vitamin E.

pith.

Many of these flavanoids

Quercetin has natural anti-inflammatory, anti-

are antioxidants and

cholesterol, anti-cancer, anti-viral, antihistamine

some of these

and antioxidant properties.

(PMFs) are called

Quercetin can help fight a variety of

‘super flavanoids’.

illnesses; it is an effective bronchodilator and

A lemon’s peel is

can help treat coughs and colds, asthma and

twenty times richer in

bronchitis; it may also help hayfever sufferers.

PMFs than its juice.

It may also help reduce symptoms like fatigue,

Flavanoids have many health benefits,

depression and anxiety.

including improving the absorption of Vitamin

Quercetin has powerful anti-inflammatory

C, reducing LDL cholesterol by up to 40%,

properties; it reduces the production and release

reducing the risk of heart disease, strengthening

of histamine and allergic and inflammatory

the walls of capillaries and encouraging

chemicals in the body.

good blood flow, fighting against cancer and

The allicin in onions helps reduce cholesterol;

enhancing DNA repair.

it has anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-fungal

Rutin, one of the flavanoids found in lemon

activities; helps reduce blood pressure,

peel, has been found to bind to harmful heavy metals and aid their expulsion from the body. Coumarins, phenolic compounds found in a lemon’s peel (mainly in its oil), are up to a hundred times higher than in its pulp.

Coumarins are antioxidants and can benefit our health by helping to prevent degenerative diseases and cancer.

A lemon’s pigments (which gives lemons their lovely yellow colour) are found mainly in its November 2014 69

decreases risk of cardiovascular disease and

damage, helps wound healing and supports the

stroke, and promotes heart health. It also helps

body’s immune system. Potatoes contain more

protect against cancer and lowers blood sugar

Vitamin C than tomatoes or sweet potatoes.

levels in diabetics.

Potatoes have many other nutrients as well: of

Onions are a rich source of chromium, which

RDA, a medium portion (175g) of new potatoes

helps to control blood sugar levels (especially

boiled in their skins provide 9% of RDA for

important for diabetics) and maintain positive

Folic acid, up to 22% of Potassium, up to 30%

hormone levels (also for PMT symptoms); and

of Vitamin 6, 11% Vitamin B1. It also contains

lowers cholesterol.

Manganese and Iron.

Onions contain Vitamin C and Manganese; and

Per serving, potatoes contain more Potassium

are a good source of B vitamins, especially B6

than bananas (620mg in a medium sized potato).

(for healthy cognitive and nerve function) and

Potassium is essential for regulating fluid and

Folic acid.

mineral balance in the body, vital for transmitting

Onions contain natural prebiotics which

nerve impulses and helping muscles contract.

stimulates the growth of ‘good’ bacteria

Potatoes are a very good source of Vitamin B6

(probiotics) in the gut. Prebiotics can improve

which is essential for a healthy nervous system,

common complaints such as Irritable Bowel

cardiovascular health, and important for athletic

Syndrome (IBS), acne, food allergies and

performance and endurance.

depression.

A medium potato with skin provides soluble

Onions can help protect against osteoporosis

fibre, which helps with weight loss (as it leaves

through the peptide GPCS which inhibits loss of

you feeling full for longer) and helps lower

calcium and bone minerals.

cholesterol. A baked potato provides more than

Although onions are about 89% water, they are

3g of fibre, mostly in the skin.

also rich in soluble fibre. Some nutritionists say

Potatoes’ reputation for being high in calories

that as little as two or three onions per week can

(and weight gain!) is undeserved, as it is not due

have a positive impact on health.

to the potatoes themselves but the way they are

5

Potatoes are an excellent source of Vitamin C

prepared or eaten. Fried, roasted or mashed with butter all add to the calorie content - but it is the added fat that makes the difference.

Without added fat, potatoes are a low calorie food.

Potatoes are an excellent source of

Vitamin C - one medium potato (an average serving of 175g/60z) provides more than 45% of the recommended daily amount (RDA) of Vitamin C. That means that one medium jacket potato can provide almost half of your daily amount of Vitamin C! Vitamin C acts as an antioxidant stabilizing free radicals, it aids collagen production, helps prevent cellular 70 November 2014

Article by Isa du Toit

The question of

‘Foreign Players’: positive contributions

By Myak Homberger Sport in general and football in particular, has seen a huge increase in ‘foreign’ players with 36.1% of all players now being foreign and with 6 major nations having in excess of 50% of their players classed as foreign (sports intelligence Jan2013).

So it is not surprising that questions are now being raised and murmurs are being heard in corners about the increase in the number of ‘foreigners’ playing in the various women’s leagues around the world. The question is whether there should there be a cap on foreign players - though some national team managers blame their team’s performance on a lack of home grown talent, thus necessitating the recruitment of foreign players.

The definition of a ‘foreign’ player is “one born outside that football association’s territory”. This is not a racist comment or derogatory word - it is an explanation. With that clear, let’s focus on the situation at hand. The Women’s Football leagues around the world are growing and so we are starting to see more and more players contracted from abroad to play for clubs. Historically players from the UK have gone to Australia to play for Photo: Papaya Photography

their off season and the odd player has gone to America to play (but mainly for college/football) as well as Japan recruiting players (within their cap allowances). What we are seeing now, is a significant shift to encourage moves around the world by players as the contracting of foreign November 2014 71

Photos: Papaya Photography

players is becoming a global market. When we spoke with Seattle Reign owner Bill Predmore for instance, he was very clear that he would look to get the best players, irrespective of their nationality - and this is now a view being shared by more and more clubs around the world.

Rather than talk about them we thought it would be better to talk to ‘foreign’ players. Chelsea LFC have for some time championed ‘foreign’ players and have been building something very interesting out of their base in Cobham. Chelsea were very gracious to us and allowed us not only access to their training ground to watch them train, but also gave us access to their ‘foreign’ players to talk about the ‘where’s and why for’s’ of playing abroad. This is not something they normally do and we are grateful for the access they gave us.

72 November 2014

Photo courtesy: Chelsea women’s football club

In talking to the various players there seemed to be a number of common themes that came out.

Yes, football is a priority for them all, but actually it was about the whole experience, not just football.

As world cup winner Yuki Ogami said, “I want to learn from countries, their culture and football”.

Regarded as one of the best players in the world at the moment you may not have thought she would say that, and that it was just about football.

However, in all the time with her and the others it Photos: Papaya Photography

was very clear that for all of these women this is about experiencing the whole package.

One of the comments that has been made is that ‘foreign’ players are outsiders, ‘hired guns’ here to do a job - yet the attitude of the players I spoke to challenges that view full on. The ‘foreign players’ realise that to be better, to learn and grow, is about immersing themselves in that world. The benefit of this to the team and the fans is you then have a skilled ‘foreign’ player who is absorbing November 2014 73

all the country has to offer, whilst learning more about football - and I would argue being a better footballer because of it. Why? Because they want to be there, because they are soaking it all up, because they are enjoying it and not because they are merely on a payroll.

Self-development and growth are key to all of the players as well. For the younger ones it is about being away from home and the challenges this brings on a practical level - from washing to cooking, etc., through to friends and family and the improvement of their skills and understanding of football for all of them.

It seems like it is a virtuous circle, the best want to get better and so they challenge themselves by going to new countries and growing, yet the reason they are growing is because they have a drive to be better and push themselves. This leads to opportunities that make them better people and because they are better people doing what

Photos: Papaya Photography

they love, they are better footballers. Show me one athlete in the world who is at their best when they are unhappy….

Commitment is another common theme amongst

for granted, and are still growing. This rubs off

the players; all players are there because they are

on the team, of course it does. Players push a

good and because they are committed

little harder, maybe learn some words in another language and want to succeed a little more

“….it’s important for athletes to learn new things, get away from what you know, it gets you out of habits and makes you better.”

in the company of people like this.

The final observation is that not one of the players said they were here to show everyone else what to do, despite being very good at what they do. Through our conversations it emerged that they thought they had things they could show the others

Listen for example to Yuki who has learned three

and that there were things they felt they

languages on her quest or Jackie Groenen who

brought to the benefit of the team - but this took

drove two hours each way each day for four years

time to come out. These aren’t prima-donnas,

to train: they are meeting and tackling all these

these are humble, but excellent athletes, here to

other things that athletes in that country take

learn and not to force their way on others.

74 November 2014

In so doing, others want to learn and benefit from

It does mean that maybe a few Japanese,

their knowledge. There are Olympians, World

Swedish, South Korean or Dutch phrase books

Cup winners, league winners, and they bring

will be purchased, but there is growth again! So

experience from the best leagues in the world. Of

bring on the global transfer market in women’s

course there is much to learn and impart and yet

football and as long as the above remains the

their desire is to learn from others. This is what

ethos for ‘foreign’ players, everyone benefits.

makes the good great and benefits everyone.

Emma Wilhelmsen sums it up best: “....they (Chelsea) have eyes on players outside England

So, it can be argued that many ‘foreign’ players

all the time. You must have this for each team; it

bring a wealth of experience and knowledge both

makes a higher level of Football.”

to and from teams and clubs around the world.

They aim to embed themselves in the culture

Editors note: a huge thanks to the team at

and football of the country. They grow and the

Chelsea for their hospitality and for allowing us

players around them grow, they are striving to be

such access.

the best and play the best and this rubs off on everyone around them. As Jackie Groenen said “….it’s important for athletes to learn new things, get away from what you know, it gets you out of habits and makes you better.” Who wouldn’t want to play alongside such remarkable world-class players - and one thing is for sure, it’s impossible not to learn from people like that.

Photo: Papaya Photography

November 2014 75

2014 Women’

World Cup

An alternative review 76 November 2014

’s Rugby 15s Photo courtesy IRB

November 2014 77

By Myak Homberger The Women’s Rugby 15s World Cup 2014 was the

Cup stand out was the amount of social media as

seventh edition of the tournament and no one

well as regular media talking about rugby and the

could have predicted a short twenty three years

exciting games etc. with little or no mention of it

ago that 20,000 people would watch a women’s

being ‘Women’s Rugby’. It was, first and foremost

Rugby World Cup final in Paris that riveted

about sport and the story. Seeing front pages and

the fans not only there, but also the record TV

sports pages of publications all around the world

audiences around the world.

was a great thing to observe.

The blow by blow accounts of all the games have

The International Rugby Board (IRB) did such a

been given very well by the media around the

great job in mobilising unions and fans around

world and so we wanted instead to comment

the world with 2010 records blown away on day

on the highlights and some of the things that

one as more than a million viewers tuned in on

stood out for us as a team. To the champions the

France TV alone to watch the hosts beat Wales.

spoils and so England finally raised the trophy

Three million French fans then watched the semi-

and became World Champions of the Rugby 15’s

final against Canada, and 138 territories with a

format after four attempts.

potential 289 million homes were broadcast to. What a TV audience for a sport and very

One of the interesting things that made this World

importantly for advertisers as well. This is what

Photo courtesy IRB

78 November 2014

Photo courtesy IRB

we need to grow the game, it’s a circle. The semis

that will stay with me for a long time. Everywhere

were all played to sold-out crowds as well - they

you turned from social media to online to print

couldn’t have delivered more if they tried.

featured the story, confirming that great stories can capture any nation’s imagination irrespective

All this media coverage was very apparent when

of gender.

Ireland beat the Black Ferns for the first time in their history, an incredible event and something

The personal side to the biggest shock of the November 2014 79

80 November 2014

Photo courtesy IRB

tournament (Ireland beating the Black Ferns) was on the one hand the incredible joy for the Irish team and all our friends in it that day. We are so proud of them and what they have achieved. By contrast, however, there was heartfelt emotion for the Black Ferns and the women we know on the team who as a result of this defeat did not get past the pool stages for the first time ever. No player or team can be faulted for their work or passion. It was very clear that this World Cup showed that every team played with pride, passion, preparation and desire. There were unsung heroes of this tournament too as teams, even when beaten, kept working, never giving up, which added to the success of this tournament. A sentiment agreed across the board in the media.

This year’s IRB Women’s Player of the Year was Magali Harvey, who was deservedly named after the final, having from the start electrified every game whenever she touched the ball, as well as producing the try of the tournament.

For those who love stats, the overall scores rose this World Cup compared to 2010. New Zealand topped the table again with most points scored, followed by England, despite not getting to the final. They also increased their lead by 24%. Canada have in the last two tournaments had the top scorer with England and New Zealand swapping respectively. To follow the increase, Emily Scarratt (England), as top scorer this World Cup, saw an increase over the 2010 top scorer of 45%. New Zealand increased their dominance of the try, almost doubling that of their nearest rival England, as well as seeing an increase of 50% over their previous WC top position.

As another World Cup came to an end Photo courtesy IRB

so too did the glittering careers of many players, notably Maggie Alphonsi of England who played out of her socks, Sandrine Agricole stretchered off in her final ever game for France, prop Jamie Burke who played her 50th game for USA and Amiria Rule after 14 seasons as a Black Fern. This was a watershed era and it will be interesting to see the current generation grow and November 2014 81

Photo courtesy IRB

Photo courtesy IRB

82 November 2014

the young generation that is emerging stand on the shoulders of those who delivered this amazing World Cup. All those wondering if the 15’s format is old or dead given the money being put into the 7’s format or the Olympic status of 7’s and the lack of game play in between World Cups need not worry.

The 15’s format is alive and well, played with passion and pride and watched by more and more people around the world than ever.

Players love the format and so do the fans, so let’s see how the next four years unfold and wait with eager anticipation as to what is in store for the next World Cup. Photos courtesy IRB

November 2014 83

84 November 2014

November 2014 85

By Catherine Spencer I am a former England International Rugby player and captain having won 63 caps for my country. I played in two World Cup finals, eight 6 Nations championships, as well as a number of Nations Cup competitions and European Cup tournaments. I won England player of the year in 2006 and picked up the Rugby Union Writers Club Award in 2010 recognising outstanding achievements within the sport both on and off the pitch; in 2011 I won the Linda Utley Award marking outstanding contribution to sport away from the pitch. I have enjoyed a tough but enjoyable time on the sports pitch but I have now commenced a new but challenging journey away from the pitch.

During my playing career and time as England captain, I got to meet some of the most determined women in England, both in my own

Advertising feature 86 November 2014

sport and in other elite disciplines. As well as sharing stories of women that had inspired or mentored us, it was clear to me that we were also role models and an inspiration to others.

I have since become determined to provide a platform for this Inspiration to be shared and transferred, for these stories from Inspiring Women, not necessarily famous names, to be used within organisations to Inspire, Believe and Achieve.

Every one of us can remember a time in our life when we have been inspired by the words or actions of another person - this moment may have provided us with the strength to believe in ourselves or the determination and motivation to achieve something we never thought possible.

There are some incredibly strong male role models in my life but I have also been fortunate enough to know some exceptionally Inspiring Women who have shaped and driven my life too.

Since international retirement in 2011 I have developed my working career using the skills and experience gained as an International athlete and captain. After three and a half years working for the RFU as a Rugby Development Officer supporting participation increase in Women and Girls rugby and spurred on by my determination outlined above I have now founded my own company called Inspiring Women. Inspiring Women is a Speaker Bureau and Leadership and Teamwork Development Specialist which uses female speakers from the sports and adventure world to provide insight and share valuable lessons learnt with the business world.

Advertising feature November 2014 87

Our motto is ‘Inspire, Believe, Achieve’; it is this

to the business world can have a massive impact,

that we use to shape our work with business.

and its impact will be greater given the Inspiring

We use our incredible speakers to Inspire a

Women who are delivering the message.

workforce, we then use executive coaches to turn that Inspiration in to Belief and then, through

Leaving a secure, permanent career at the RFU

bespoke structured delivery dependent upon

and launching Inspiring Women is probably the

and bespoke to client need, our aim is to help to

most daunting thing I have done since being

drive Achievement.

asked to captain my country but I know that Inspiring Women has huge potential. My vision is

Although our Inspiring Women can resonate

for Inspiring Women to become the first choice for

with a mixed gender audience, and already

any company requiring a female speaker and to

do so, at one off key note speech events, our

become the number one option for any company

business leadership and teamwork development

requiring change to encourage the development

model does have a focus to increase the number

of more female leaders.

of females taking on higher level positions in business. We also understand that different

If you are a leader in an organisation who

areas of work have different gender balancing

believes that women can inspire your workforce

issues. For example we know that within the

to have faith in themselves and motivate them

legal industry there is a high percentage level of

to achieve their goals, then I know a few women

female uptake at entry level and through initial

worth talking too. I very much look forward to

educational qualifications so law firms may have

experiencing what lies ahead in the next chapter

a different need to retain females. In other areas

of my life as well as inspiring others to make the

such as within industry the need may be to recruit

most of their potential too.

more females at entry level before moving on to addressing retention levels in higher positions.

Catherine@inspiringwomen.co.uk www.inspiringwomen.co.uk

Alongside the need and desire to increase female leaders within the business world we also recognise that there is a wealth of very successful sports women and sports teams within the UK and, in fact, globally. We also know that there are valuable insights, lessons and skills that can be transferred successfully to add value to the business world. I am certain that this transfer of knowledge from the sport and adventure world

Advertising feature 88 November 2014

‘Inspire, Believe, Achieve’ Speaker Agency, Leadership & Teamwork development Consultancy.

Do you need a keynote speaker Do you have a need to recruit more females in to your industry

Are you looking to develop leadership or teamwork skills within your workforce Would your company benefit from increasing the number of or developing existing or potential female leaders

We can help using our resource of Inspiring female speakers and Inspiring and expert associates. www.inspiringwomen.co.uk catherine@inspiringwomen.co.uk

November 2014 89

Photo courtesy Ladies European Tour

90 November 2014

Photo courtesy Ladies European Tour

Cup Captains Confer at Gleneagles

By Bethan Cutler A decade ago, the media labelled The Solheim Cup ‘The Ryder Cup with lipstick,’ a succinct reminder of its status as ‘the female equivalent.’

These days, the event stands proudly in its own right and no such comparison is necessary, but as European Captain Carin Koch discovered when she met Captain Paul McGinley at Gleneagles, there are numerous similarities and shared experiences at these two mega sporting events.

Carin, you’ve just been to the Ryder Cup. Tell us about your visit.

It was my first Ryder Cup and I had a great time! I did a few interviews for TV and radio, visited team rooms, the hotel and had a nice chat with Paul McGinley.

What were the most noticeable similarities to The Solheim Cup? The atmosphere, the crowds and the decorations in the team rooms in blue and yellow!

November 2014 91

What were the main differences?

The Ryder cup is a bit bigger, but really the same. We have more songs on the first tee, they have more cheering.

Did you know Captain Paul McGinley before?

I had met him before, at The 2011 Solheim Cup in Ireland. I know his wife Allison (maiden name Shapcott) who used to play on the Ladies European Tour.

What did you discuss with Paul McGinley?

Some of his preparations and things he had done in the team room. I will talk to him again about his experience.

Photo courtesy Ladies European Tour

Which caddies did you recognise?

“Fooch” caddies for Justin Rose, Craig Connelly for Martin Kaymer and Terry Mundy is with Ian Poulter. I think two of them have caddied at seven Solheim cups and four Ryder Cups!

What were your thoughts on his pairings and strategy?

He seems to know his players well, and made sure they were comfortable and felt part of the team. They played for each other.

What were his best pairings in your opinion?

Justin Rose and Hendrik Stenson worked well.

What are you doing to prepare at the moment?

I have visited the course, decided the oncourse clothing, and I have a lot of other things in my head at the moment.

“The Ryder cup is a bit bigger, but really the same.

We have more songs on the first tee, they have more cheering...”

How will this change next year?

Next year I will focus more on the players.

Which tournaments are you planning to play in over the next 12 months?

I’m not sure yet. Dubai is my next one, then I will see about 92 November 2014

Photo courtesy Ladies European Tour

November 2014 93

Photo courtesy Ladies European Tour

94 November 2014

Photo courtesy Ladies European Tour

next year. I will visit some tournaments in the US and play some LET events.

Who are your helpers and what are their roles?

I am undecided who they are but they are very important for the tournament week. They are part of creating a great atmosphere around the team. They get the players and caddies what they need and also report in from the course to the captain about various things.

What role does Annika Sorenstam have?

She is one of my vice Captains. She will help me study the stats of the players next year, and have a say in the pics. Then she will have an important role during the tournament week.

What is the role of Fanny Sunesson?

She is my strategic advisor. I am very happy to have her on the team. Are there any players you are watching closely and what do they need to do to impress you?

There are many girls who could be on the team. They need to make lots of birdies and eagles and be good teammates. November 2014 95

INSPIRING A GENERATION World class athletes don’t just happen and so many stop short due amongst other things to the lack of role models, support and poor messages.

Girls are being put off from getting involved in sport because “they are girls” and so on.

We want to inspire the next generation as well as aspiring athletes with messages from world class athletes in a new feature called “INSPIRING A GENERATION” enjoy, share and lets change the message to the next generation.

Who better than to start the feature with than Sophie Christansen OBE: VIEW ON YOUTUBE http://youtu.be/fj9wpCmoAIU

96 November 2014

SPORTS

TM

International

SPORTS

TM

International

http://youtu.be/fj9wpCmoAIU

November 2014 97

Jess Fishlock

98 November 2014

Ashleigh Simon & David Buhai:

Partners on and off the course Interview and article by Myak Homberger

Photos courtesy Ladies European Tour

Would you want to work with your partner?

Many people in business do, but in sport there are very few who work together and even less who actually make a good team and get on.

Golf is a sport where you can get upset with your own shadow if it’s not going well - so imagine your partner being on the course day in and day out with you. The first player in 101 years to win the Ladies South African Open title three times, 6 times tour winner Ashleigh Simon and her partner David Buhai, her caddie, spent time with me chatting about how things work for them on tour.

It was quite clear in the conversation that as with all athletes and sportswomen there are good days and bad days - and in the same way, so with relationships. I appreciated the openness and honesty with which they spoke.

The thing that was interesting for me was that first, they recognised the potential challenges inherent in working together but more importantly, they worked with the ups and downs, as well as with each character Photo:other’s Papaya Photography November 2014 99

Photo courtesy Ladies European Tour

traits. At no point in the conversation was there talk about wanting to change the other person, to the contrary: they both wanted the best for each other and accepted the way the other is and work with it to bring out the best in each other. As Ashleigh “...often we go play pool, watch commented about Dave, “...no one Photo: Papaya Photography sport and do our own thing. It’s knows me better.” She realises this and recognises that part of what not something we talk about a Dave does is help her to be the best lot, it just works, we know.” she can be, as she is.

Away from the course they have found a rhythm of time together and time apart, as well as seeing friends, family etc. and they both agreed that this is part of what has been good for them. As Dave says, “….often we go play pool, watch sport and do our own thing. It’s not something we talk about a lot, 100 November 2014

it just works, we know.” This has created balance and has ensured that they aren’t in each others’ pockets all the time - and more importantly, both of them are happy to let the other person to be an individual and have their own space. This seems to mean that when they are back together on the road for two to three months at a time, then the partnership works.

“ I know her emotions and where she is at. I find ways to take her mind off it with random things or humour, it breaks the ice...”

Another stand-out thing in the conversation was that Ashleigh values and respects Dave’s input as well as the support he gives her around the course. He isn’t just her caddie, he is there to judge where she is at and give her the support that she needs best in that moment. As Dave comments, “I know her emotions and where she is at. I find ways to take her mind off it with random things or humour, it breaks the ice.” Ashleigh readily admits that on the course she sometimes realises it and sometimes doesn’t, but it is of great benefit to her and she notices the impact when, on the odd occasion, Dave is unable to be with her.

But the fascinating part of this is that they both know their roles and place on the course and it’s this definition and boundary that seems to be a large part of why their professional relationship works. Dave explained the perspective needed in a professional relationship and why it often doesn’t work. “If you are going to do it, you need to dedicate yourself to it. A lot (sic) think it’s easy, but you need to take a step back. She is the player at the end of the day.”

Photo courtesy Ladies European Tour

November 2014 101

Photo courtesy Ladies European Tour

102 November 2014

By the same token Ashleigh recognises and agrees with this, but doesn’t use it in a ‘one up way’. Instead, she says “….this is our 5th year together as player/caddie and no one knows me better. On the course I need to play.” This surely is the key? Both Ashleigh and Dave are able to separate business and relationship and there are no ego’s - and as “….this is our 5th year together a result there is balance in their partnership. as player/caddie and no one

knows me better. On the course I need to play.”

Once off the course there is seldom, if ever, talk of golf and they are once again simply a

couple. It is this ability to switch between a work role for both of them, where neither takes things personally, while at the same time being partners off the course, that seems to be their success.

Ashleigh and Dave seem to have found the balance between work and home life by acknowledging each others’ roles and being able to leave the work on the course and not making things personal, but supporting each other for who they are. It was great to spend time with them, listening to how they make their partnership work so successfully and gain such a personal insight into their lives.

November 2014 103

“I hated every minute of training, but I said, ‘Don’t quit. Suffer now and live the rest of your life as a champion.”

- Muhammad Ali

SPORTS

International 104 November 2014

TM

November 2014 105

SPORTS

TM

International

Photo courtesy Andrew Pindar

106 November 2014

UNSUNG

HERO Andrew Pindar OBE

By Myak Homberger

Women’s sport has many stories of financial sacrifices made by athletes, about the struggle to get funding and the lack of sponsorship etc. But as always there are people out there making a difference, our ‘unsung heroes’.

Andrew Pindar is a man with a vision and a belief in sport and in particular women’s sport, having sponsored and supported female athletes for thirty years. He is an incredibly humble man when we talk about the athletes he has supported over the years - but as he lists them you realise that these aren’t just local athletes but world-class athletes, medal winners, record breakers and gold medal winning Olympians. Anna Hemmings, marathon canoeist and x6 World Champion, 2x silver world championships; Hannah Mills, x4 World and 1x European champion, 1x world and 2x European silver, and 2012 Olympic silver; Hilary Lister, record-breaking quadriplegic sailor; Jo Royle, trans-ocean sailing skipper; Anna Tunnicliffe, Olympic Gold, twice World champion, two-times ISAF Rolex World Sailor of the Year, ODU Sports Hall of Fame; Helena Darvelid, with 16 world sailing records; Michela Von Kessel……. What an incredible set of women to have supported in their sporting journeys! And not only did he support them, but he saw something in them that made him sponsor them - and this is part of the remarkable story that Andrew has.

The interesting thing about Andrew is that despite his humility about what he has done over the years and the magnitude thereof he is very, very clear on the business side of sponsorship. So many people I talk to down play sponsorship, saying that they do it with a charitable view and some even say it’s to reduce tax liabilities. It’s refreshing to hear someone talk so November 2014 107

frankly and openly about why they sponsor athletes. “It’s not a selfless act, sponsorship isn’t philanthropic,” he says and continues to expand on this, explaining that yes, it’s about athletes achieving their goals, but it’s also about the sponsor achieving theirs. “There should be symbiosis, it should be a transparent relationship where both parties balance the needs of the relationship,” Andrew explained.

This may not be a unique view but it certainly is a rare one to hear of in women’s sport where large amounts are spent on sponsorship but where an outcome is required. In Andrew’s view sponsorship should be for the benefit of both parties. This being a business relationship was for me one of the key areas Andrew spoke of: he isn’t interested in simply throwing money at the athletes, he wants to work with them and bring out the best of them whilst getting the athletes to see that he needs something back as well, with the sponsor and the athletes working together to ensure that this happens in a ‘transparent way,’ as he put it. This isn’t about both sides potentially falling out due to lack of communication; everything is in the open and up front.

Andrew Pindar is a businessman with a vision and strategy for sponsoring women that should be replicated across other businesses and sports to allow both business and sport to benefit together in a productive and supportive relationship. He has put his money where his mouth is (as the saying goes) and as a result has had a significant impact on the world of female sailing. A true unsung hero.

Photo courtesy Andrew Pindar

108 November 2014

Photos courtesy Andrew Pindar

November 2014 109

Sailing with the best:

Extreme Sailing

Photo courtesy Extreme sailing

110 November 2014

By Myak Homberger I have the privilege of one of the best jobs in the world where I get to meet incredible individuals, athletes and teams, spend time with them and tell their stories. Occasionally I get invited to spend time behind the scenes, training camps etc. and see things most people don’t get to see or experience and I feel honoured to be a small part of this growing world of woman’s sport. Extreme Sailing is an 8 stage world series that races sail boats in stadium style settings in front of crowds around the world. The very best in sailing race are there including Sir Ben Ainsley, Morgan Larson, Anna Tunnicliffe, Dean Barker

November 2014 111

Photo courtesy Extreme sailing

“...Extreme Sailing is an 8 stage world series that races sail boats in stadium style settings in front of crowds around the world..�

112 November 2014

and Sarah Ayton. These are Gold medal winning Olympians, World champions and Americas Cup heroes, so when I was asked by Extreme Sailing if I would like to join them for a day there was no hesitation.

What I didn’t realise until the day before was that it wouldn’t be a casual sail in the harbour, but that I would be on the boat with the team as they raced for the 5th leg of the World series! I don’t know of any sport anywhere in the world where they let someone like me on to be “part of the team” in a race that counts for points….needless to say my heart was in my mouth. Kind words from Anna Tunnicliffe, double gold Olympian, to “watch you don’t get your noggin smashed” did little to make me feel that all would be ok, these guys were out to win and I wanted to be sure I wasn’t going to do anything to get in their way or jeopardise this!

The starter sounded and for the next fifteen minutes of my life I clung on, dove, rolled and did all I was told to aid the weight and position of

Photos courtesy Extreme sailing

November 2014 113

Photo courtesy Extreme sailing

114 November 2014

November 2014 115

the boat as the five of them ran around pushing, pulling and communicating via the smallest amount of words possible. They pushed the boat, performing things I didn’t think were possible of a boat, turning almost instantly, stopping as if gifted with the best brakes in the world and avoiding more than one crash as boats jockeyed for position around the bay. The team work and communication was astounding. There is zero time for debate: each person said their bit and was taken at face value - from wind direction to boat movements to tactics, it was something incredible to observe from on-board. A glimpse is available on our YouTube channel of some of it but unfortunately most of the footage was lost due to memory card malfunction and so the experience of a lifetime can’t be shared in full, apologies.

116 November 2014

This was an incredible experience and one I will never forget, not only because of the unique access but to have seen a team work in the way they did and to know that I was on board with Olympians and Americas Cup winners is a truly unique and unforgettable experience.

This was an incredible experience and one I will never forget,

Photo courtesy Extreme sailing

The Alinghi team were all very good to me on shore as well as off and I am truly grateful to them and the Extreme guys for the opportunity. This is a sport I would encourage all of you to watch and get into - it’s truly amazing what they do with these boats and that is spoken as someone who has never been on any kind of racing boat!

More about Extreme Sailing in the next issue

November 2014 117

quick &

delicious Dhal “This dhal is easy and quick to prepare; it is also delicious, nutritious and costs very little to make. �

Recipes and Tips sponsored by

The haricot bread company Hand-crafted Artisan Bread Photo: Zac Peatling

118 November 2014

Recipes and Tips Ingredients 500g Red lentils 2 Onions, finely chopped 2 t turmeric 4 t paprika 2 ½ pints vegetable or chicken stock 2 T Olive oil Method • Add stock cubes to boiling water and leave to dissolve • Fry the onions gently in the olive oil until translucent • Add the spices and stir to mix with the onions • Gently fry the mixture on a low heat for a minute • Add the lentils and stir to mix with the onions and spices • Add the warm stock liquid, stir well and bring to the boil • Turn the heat down to a low heat/simmer • Cover and simmer until the lentils are cooked and breaking up • Stir occasionally during cooking and keep an eye on it to make sure it has enough liquid and is not ‘catching’ The dhal can easily ‘catch’ or burn if it doesn’t have enough liquid or isn’t stirred occasionally.

Add a bit more liquid if necessary - just be careful not to add too much in one go as it will water the dhal down and turn it into soup!

Hints Serve the dhal with Basmati rice or on crisp jacket potatoes; with fresh crusty bread, naan or warm pitta breads. Whatever you choose to eat with the dhal, it makes for a delicious, inexpensive and nutritious meal!

Good-for-you ingredients Lentils The low GI of lentils keeps blood sugar levels steady and provides a slow release of energy.

Lentils are rich in protein (for building muscle and repairing damaged tissue), soluble fibre (for gut health, helping to reduce cholesterol and lowering the risk of heart disease). Lentils also contain iron (for healthy blood and transporting oxygen around the body), zinc (for healthy immune system and wound healing), magnesium (for the transmission of nerve impulses, also bone and heart health) potassium (for regulating body fluids) and B Vitamins (essential for a healthy nervous system and releasing energy from food).

Turmeric Turmeric contains the supernutrient curcumin, which has a powerful anti-inflammatory action; it suppresses the release of inflammatory agents in the body and indirectly helps tissue heal by the release of cortisone.

Turmeric also fights cancer by preventing cancer cells from dividing and multiplying; it lowers blood cholesterol and prevents blood from clotting, thus helping to fight heart disease.

Clinical trials are currently evaluating the use of turmeric for preventing or treating arthritis, kidney and vascular disease, diabetes and Alzheimers disease. Indian villagers with a high intake of turmeric have the lowest incidence of the disease in the world.

By Isa du Toit

November 2014 119

Thank you’s I sat down two years ago to write my first thank you

section for what I thought was a trial magazine - and here I am writing my 12th one, thanks to all of you the readers!

Thanks for reading it, for sharing it and all the

positive feedback. It’s been such an amazing journey and it has been great to be a part of and see and

hear the growing amount of stories from around the world.

I would like to thank the core team who make this all possible - Roger with his amazing design work,

Isa for her passion, commitment and brains, Rachael, Myroslava and Adam for their knowledge, all their work and selflessness - real stars!

To all the athletes this issue who have given us their

time and shared of themselves - Dame Sarah Storey, Andrew Pindar, Sophie, Ashleigh and Dave, Carin Koch and to the New Zealand 7’s team for your friendship, time and access - you guys rock!

To all our sponsors and supporters; Spur UK,

Haricot Bread, Biltongman, Rugby Spy, Sporttape

and Mouthwear technology. Your commitment and

generosity to women in sport is amazing, thank you!

So thank you again for reading and supporting, I

hope you enjoy this issue and RT, share and enjoy!

Myak

The views and opinions expressed by the writers in this magazine are their own and not necessarily those of Sports International Magazine. © Copyright 2014 Sports International Magazine. All Rights Reserved 120 November 2014

SPORTS

TM

International

Contact Subscribe free on line: www.issuu.com/sportsinternationalmagazine Keep up to date on our blog: www.sportsinternationalmagazine.com/blog or on twitter: @sportsinternationalmagazine Advertising contact: Adsales@sportsinternationalmagazine.com Editorial contact: Editor@sportinternationalmagazine.com SPORTS

SPORTS

TM

International

The Pro Sports Magazine October 2012

SPORTS

SPORTS

TM

International

TM

The Pro Sports Magazine

International

January 2013

Carly Telford

SPORTS

SPORTS

International

TM

International

Nikki McSweeney

Interview England and Chelsea Goalkeeper

TM

The Pro Sports Magazine April 2013

SPORTS

TM

International

SPORTS

Lynne Cantwell

Hollands Rugby 7’s Queen - EXCLUSIVE Interview

TM

Lerato Malekutu, Kate Jones, Megan Fletcher

International

The Pro Sports Magazine August 2013

SPORTS

June 2013

SPORTS

TM

International

Lucy Shuker

Captain Team GB Hockey

Kate Walsh

Paralympic tennis player

The current state of affairs - By Katie Halliday

Women in Sport

At 15yres old - The youngest ever Test Cricketer in England

Ireland’s most capped female player - EXCLUSIVE Interview

Jenny Tinmouth, Anita North , Esther Tang, Nigel Francis...

Non Evans, New Zealand Rugby, Serita Stone, Crossfit...

Keeping your identity when the game’s up, Moody Cows, Philippa Tuttiett, Mignon du Preez

Top Tips on sports nutrtion and more...

The Pro Sports Magazine

Holly Calvin

Team GB Olympic Bobsleigh Team

TESSA VELDHUIS

TM

International

Sports nutrtion, top tips and more...

Top Tips on sports nutrtion and more...

Top Tips on sports nutrtion and more...

Photo Papaya Photography

Photo courtesy of Team GB

TM

International

The Pro Sports Magazine

The Pro Sports Magazine

The Pro Sports Magazine

October 2013

December 2013

February 2014

party 1Anniversary photos

1 Issue

st

Anniversary

st

Pathway to Gold

The South African Hockey Team

Australian Womens Cricket Team

Nikki Symmons

German Women of the Modern Pentathlon

Exclusive Interviews

Easkey Britton, Claire Bennet, Jane Claxton, Laura Davies CBE,

Beverly Goebel, Lydia Hall, Sindy Huyer, Sarah Outen, Buchanan Next Gen – BMX team

a calling - not a job...

Australian Rugby 7s

Exclusive Interviews

Women in Sport

The current state of affairs - By Katie Halliday

Exclusive Interviews & Articles

Ibiza Rugby 10s, What’s the real problem with doping?, SA Netball...

Irish Rugby 7s, The Ashes, Isha Johansen, The Solheim Cup...

Sports nutrtion, top tips and more...

Sports nutrtion, top tips and more...

Jenny Tinmouth, Anita North , Esther Tang, Nigel Francis...

2014 FASWL Review Transfers, Women’s Surfing Roots...

Sports nutrtion, top tips and more...

Sports nutrtion, top tips and more...

Photo Papaya Photography

Photo Papaya Photography

Photo Papaya Photography Photo Papaya Photography

The Pro Sports Magazine

The Pro Sports Magazine

The Pro Sports Magazine

The Pro Sports Magazine

April 2014

June 2014

August 2014

October 2014

Amanda Davies

Kelly Holmes

Sophie Christensen

Beverly Goebel, Lydia Hall, Sindy Huyer, Sarah Outen, Buchanan Next Gen – BMX team

Bianca Walkden; Lara Prior-Palmer, Salley Conway, Marcelle Manson, Anna Turney, Lydia Hall, Méabh De Búrca

Ladies European Tour, Alex Scott, Charlotte Edwards, Carla Hohepa, Liz McTernan, Man City Womens Football

2014 FASWL Review Transfers, Women’s Surfing Roots...

SIM Unsung Hero, Dragons 7’s, Womens Football, Cricket: Twenty20,

Exclusive Interviews & Articles

Sports nutrition, top tips and more...

Exclusive Interviews & Articles

Sports explained, top tips and more...

New Zealand Rugby 7’s

Exclusive Interviews & Articles

Sunshine Ladies Tour, Extreme Sailing, Sophie Radcliffe, Ashleigh Simon, Dame Sarah Storey Exclusive Interviews & Articles

SIM Unsung Hero, 2014 FAWSL, 5 Surprising Food Facts!

SIM Unsung Hero, Brazil Rugby, Australian Rugby 7’s

Recipe, top tips and more...

Recipe, top tips and more...

Photo: Papaya Photography Photo Papaya Photography

www.sportsinternationalmagazine.com November 2014

121