Dame Kelly Holmes Runs To Greendown!

On the 19th of November, Dame Kelly Holmes visited Greendown School. Here she ran special workshops based on boxing, athletics, netball and cheerleading training. These workshops included pupils from Greendown and many other schools around Swindon. An extremely exciting event! Before this took place, Dame Kelly took some time for us to interview her about her life. This is what happened:

Who was your sports hero and have you ever met them?
Well, I managed to meet Tessa Sanderson in 1984 at Butlins after Tessa had just won a gold medal. As she was one of my heroes, it really inspired me and made everything seem real. I really started to work hard after this to make myself feel better.

What is your role in the 2012 Olympics?
I've got a job in the sporting legacy team. I'm also going to work with more school children, to try and keep them interested in sports and maybe help them to enter future Olympics. Most subjects are linked with P.E so it helps with everything really!

Was P.E your favourite subject at school?
Yes. I loved P.E! The problem was that in other subjects I didn't really concentrate as much, as I always wanted to be outside. I always got involved in school challenges and the duke of Edinburgh awards. At school I always wanted to join the army, because I wanted a challenge and to keep in top shape. So, I became an army fitness trainer.

We've noticed that you let people touch your medals. Is this worrying?
No, I really don't mind people touching my medals to be honest. Showing them to people makes me feel proud. They help to show people how long and hard my journey was and help people feel a part of it.

How has your life changed after becoming a dame?
I receive more important letters! Also I get a lot more busy publicity and I get to meet a lot more important people. Meeting the queen was also a fantastic moment!

Thank you very much for talking to us Kelly!

By Faye Rogers and Jess Harmer
Year 8