Andrew Burke-hannon, 2021
IT was a dream come true for Dubliner Andrew when he was picked to represent Ireland in the World Baton Twirling European Cup in Spain after he lost two-and-a-half stone on the show.
The Clondalkin man, 34, quit baton twirling in 2018 after a body confidence crisis but last year was back on the floor in the adult male solo category.
He said: “Wearing my country colours and waving the flag, I can’t describe how I felt walking out on the floor for the opening ceremony. I never thought I’d do it as I didn’t have the confidence.
“In 2018, I was struggling on the floor so I bowed out and never imagined I’d be back to achieve my dream.
“I signed up to lose weight but the journey was so much more than that. It was about dealing with how
I was bullied and habits I had around emotional eating.
“I learned how to face those issues. I learned if I feel low, a walk will give me more endorphins than a bar of chocolate. I’ve a healthy, balanced diet now.
“I do some resistance exercises at home like planks and squatting and go for a 5km walk a day.
“Now I can keep up with 16-year-olds in the baton group with me – and I’m 100% confident. I look good, feel good and I’m back on the floor.
“The show changed my perception of life. I don’t seek approval from other people or feel fearful. I knew I needed help and the show changed my relationship with food and fitness.
“Now I’ve qualified for the European Championships in France in July – because of OT I can do that – I got a lot more than I bargained for.
“I will never step away from it as it again gives me so much joy.
“Here I am, back. I really don’t know where I’d be without the OT team as it changed my life.”
‘Walking will give me more endorphins than chocolate’