Dan Crawford
The 2017 Invictus Games in Toronto, with more than 550 athletes from 17 nations competing over eight days in September, were the biggest sporting event the Royal New Zealand Navy lieutenant has been involved in. However, Crawford, who has multiple sclerosis (MS), claimed a silver medal in indoor rowing and three bronze medals in track and rowing.
Did your MS diagnosis in 2014 change your approach to health, diet and well-being? I’ve always thought of myself as healthy, fit and strong. My diagnosis hasn’t changed that. What has changed is how I measure my well-being. I know the potential progression of MS, so following a healthy diet and remaining active are great ways to remind myself that I’m overcoming my diagnosis every day. What dietary challenges did you face in Canada?
I was surprised that dairy alternatives seemed far less mainstream than in New Zealand. Finding foods that were dairy-free and low in saturated fats for breakfast proved a bit challenging. I mostly ate dry granola with added walnuts, washed down with a glass of orange juice.
Do you have a special meal or avoid specific foods before competing? I didn’t follow a “ritualistic” approach to meals before my events, I just tried to keep it as close as possible to my usual diet.
What were competitors’ meal arrangements like? The Athletes’ Village had a meal hall for competitors and a separate space for friends and family supporters. The hall was designed for people of all abilities, and there was always help on hand if required. Between them, the staff spoke all the languages of the competing teams.
What did you have for breakfast today? Oats with banana, raisins and a couple of almonds. I make it with water and a bit of almond milk. I’ll sometimes go crazy and treat myself to a dash of cinnamon or maple syrup.
What did you have for lunch? Salad made with spinach leaves, cucumber and cherry tomatoes served over couscous, with a bit of tuna. It was lightly dressed with an extra virgin olive oil and balsamic dressing, which sounds fancy, but it takes me all of five minutes to make.
What’s your favourite evening meal? Wraps. I’m a big fan of Mexican-style black-bean chilli, salad and brown-rice wraps.
* The Invictus Games are an international adaptive event in which wounded, injured or sick armed services personnel and associated veterans take part in various sports.