I’ll never run out of passion competing for country, says Hahn

IT’S been exactly ten years since a starry-eyed Sophie Hahn first took to the track.

Then 15, the Nottingham-born star joined Charnwood Athletics Club in Loughborough off the back of a glittering London 2012 Paralympics.

She won gold in the T38 100m at her first major international competition, the 2013 World Championships, before further success at the European Championships, Commonwealth and Olympic Games.

And despite having conquered all four major events, Hahn says the chance to represent her country is a privilege she will never take for granted.

“I just love what I do,” she said.

Hahn is one of more than 1,100 elite athletes on UK Sport’s National Lottery-funded World Class Programme, allowing them to train full time, have access to the best coaches and access technical support.

“I love representing my country, especially Team England at a home Games, and if you love what you do, and you’re very passionate, why give it up?” she said.

“Why not keep pushing and saying, ‘yes you’ve done this but can you do it again and again.’

“I’ve been very fortunate to travel all over the world, I never imagined going to

Tokyo, Australia, Gold Coast or having a home World Championships. “We’re very lucky and fortunate. Yes, we do work hard but we’re very lucky to represent our country and travel all over the world.” Hahn is looking to capitalise on the once in a lifetime opportunity for medal success in her home country.

The 25-year-old has certainly made the most of those trips, picking up 13 major championship golds to date and in 2018 becoming the first female track and field athlete to hold gold medals in the same event from the World Championships,

Paralympic Games, European Championships and Commonwealth Games.

Apart from taking her dogs for a walk to destress, Hahn says the key to her success is sheer hard work and dedication.

She said: “Let’s say you’ve had a break and you go back to day one of winter training, just give it 100% every single session, in terms of, yes, on the track and in the gym but recovery too. Have you cooled down? Have you taken your protein shake? Is the body ready to go again? It’s all about recovery and giving all you’ve got.”