Cameron French

The champion hurdler enjoys a healthy diet, but that doesn’t mean he misses out: “There’s no reason not to have your cake or a burger too.” It’s clearly working for him – he’s representing the country at this month’s Commonwealth Games after breaking the national 400m hurdles record in January.

What dietary challenges do you face in your sport? Hydration. I sweat a lot, so I need to drink before, during and after training. I usually alternate between bottles of water and bottles of electrolytes – four to five bottles minimum [a day] on top of other fluids with meals or snacks.

Do you eat healthily for the sake of fitness or because that’s what you like? It’s definitely an everyday life priority. I enjoy feeling healthy, and you can’t beat the taste of fresh local and home-grown food. My diet’s pretty relaxed – everything in moderation. Do you eat anything special before you compete?

I usually have food that’s easy to digest and reasonably bland, such as cereal; bacon, eggs and avocado on toast; or a filled croissant. I eat snacks such as bananas, muffins, muscle [protein] bars or lollies if needed. I try to time it so I finish eating roughly two hours before a race.

What’s your typical breakfast? Cereal with full-fat milk, a glass of water and juice.

What about lunch? Scrambled eggs with bacon, garlic, mushrooms, tomatoes and avocado on multigrain toast. And chocolate milk.

And your favourite dinner? Either home-kill meat, fresh veges and homemade chips or home-made creamy Cajun chicken, bacon and avocado fettuccine. What snacks do you like? If I need something to bridge the gap between meals, I eat muesli bars, bliss balls, bananas or other fruit, chocolate, chips, protein shakes or smoothies. What happens when you eat at other people’s houses? I’m not fussy – I’ll eat anything. Usually the main food concern is whether there’s going to be enough.