Loving London 2012!
6 August, 2012
Wow, what an incredible week! It's been very emotional, but
amazing to look back on. I must say a HUGE thank you to absolutely
everyone who has supported and helped me. The messages I've
received have been so lovely.
And the crowd - what can I say, just incredible! It was more
than I ever could have expected. They were amazing for every single
race and every athlete here is so grateful for the unbelievable
support. When I stood on that podium after my 800m freestyle it was
something I will never ever forget. Hearing them chant my name was
heart warming and made me very emotional!
The 400m freestyle at the start of the week was a great result
for me. I was so pleased to have made it through to the final let
alone end up on the podium. The 800m freestyle was a tough race. I
gave it my absolute all and I can honestly say I don't have any
regrets as I couldn't have done anything more. Obviously I'm a
little disappointed, especially with the time, but it was amazing
to be on the podium again.
I'm unbelievably proud to be able to say I have four Olympic
medals and I owe so much to everyone who has supported me and
helped me along the way. My family, friends, support team - physio,
gym trainer, psychologist (Simon Middlemas), sports science (Mike
Peyrebrune). To my coach, Bill Furniss, who I will never be able to
repay all he's given me. I'm forever in his debt. And lastly to all
my fans - everyone in Mansfield, Britain and all over. You don't
realise how much you've helped. Thank you.
It's been a great week so far for Team GB as a whole. It's been
amazing to watch and I'm so proud and honoured to be on this team.
The competition at an Olympics is so tough - but Team GB have
really risen to the challenge and the medal tally just shows how
much hard work and effort has been put in over the last four years.
I must say that it's been an absolute honour to see, at first hand,
the greatest athlete ever compete - Mr Michael Phelps. What a
legend!! He is unlike anyone else - and his overall medal tally is
something a country, let alone one man, would be proud of!
Team GB is unbelievable and I have so much respect for everyone
on this team, it's a real honour to be part of it. I can't wait to
see what the second week brings and to cheer on my best friend
Keri-anne Payne and Daniel Fogg in the open water swimming. Good
luck to everyone left competing, everyone is behind you including
myself. I will be cheering my heart out!
