Elite athlete scheme
On the right track
Runner Ricky Stevenson has won an array of medals at both national and international events. In 2008 the BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise (Applied Sport Science) student ran the fastest mile for an U23 in Europe and won the British University Championship gold medal in the 3,000m. Ricky, who is on our elite athlete scheme, now has his sights set on the 2012 Olympic Games. Here he talks about his love of athletics and his desire to succeed.
How would you describe the feeling you get from running?
There are people who think that running, especially long distances, is boring, but it’s something you have to experience. If I didn’t compete and train, I don’t know what I would do with my life. The sport has made me who I am and gave me a lot of confidence in other areas.
Is it difficult to adapt to running one mile races and then also competing in five and 10 mile events?
I have had some criticism for running in certain races, but you can’t fault it because it works. The logic is having the strength to last the rounds when it comes to major championships.
If you go back to the glory days of the 1970’s and 80’s, Steve Ovett would run a half marathon one week, then go and run the 800m in 1.45 the week after, to do that sort of thing can only give you strength.
How do you cope with the pressure of competing?
There’s pressure in every event, but I can handle it. I thrive off stuff like that. I feel comfortable in those surroundings. I can go and prove myself, even when the odds or the form book are against me - I always think I can win.
What are the benefits of being on the elite athlete scheme?
The scheme has been a massive help to me. There is the financial support, but even more beneficial is the strength and conditioning training.
I’ve always done core training but this has given me a structured programme in the gym, which has been really difficult. Matt Wright, my strength and conditioning coach, has been brilliant and has taken a keen interest in me.
Do you think you can run in the 2012 Olympic Games?
It is close and it is definitely reachable, but I won’t be at my best at that time. You have got to be cautious, it would be nice to get there on target and not pushing it, but you are ready when you are ready.
