I expect a lot of myself, but I think that’s something athletes have to do. in Australia. She has been training hard since
but I felt I was capable of a lot better and I
October last year – splitting her time between
wanted more. It wasn’t a nice feeling.
the UK and California - with dreams of bringing home another medal for her country. “I definitely get nerves but I’ve put in a lot of training over the winter,’ said Sophie. “April
“I came out of it. You have to carry on and then it starts to feel better and if you feel you can do better, that’s what pushes you forward.” Her Lancashire roots have formed a huge
is about all of that coming together. I know I
part of Sophie’s character as well as giving her
have done the best I can over the year and it’s
many treasured memories. From family walks in
about remembering that training.
Towneley Park every Sunday to trips to Boundary
“Setting records is added pressure but it does give me confidence. I expect a lot of myself, but I think that’s something athletes have to do.
Mill with her grandparents, Lancashire is the place that will always feel like home. “My mum and dad worked full time so me
If I didn’t I wouldn’t compete. I’m really excited
and my sister did a lot with my grandparents.
about the Games, I’m feeling good about it.”
We used to get up to all sorts of things. We loved
It hasn’t all been plain sailing for the 26-year-old. As well as celebrating the highs, the talented sportswoman has also had to
going walking up Pendle Hill. It’s a place that has so many amazing memories for me. “Lancashire – and Burnley – will always be
weather the tough times. But it is these
home for me, no matter where I go. Whenever
challenging times that have moulded her into a
I go back my grandad always takes me and my
woman determined to succeed.
sister out for lunch – it’s all about having family
“It was the last Commonwealth Games, and that year, that was a real low point,’ admitted Sophie. “On paper I came away with a bronze,
time when I come back. I love that feeling of being home. You can’t beat it.” Sophie is working at breaking down barriers