What are your thoughts on the Olympic Park? Which of the
venues stands out the most?
I was impressed by the speed of
construction and I feel like all the people here are immobilised for success.
The construction of the Park is magnificent; each venue has a different style and a
unique stamp.
The architecture of the Velodrome, for example, is very interesting and
brings the modern edge of sport. The Olympic Stadium is also amazing, and as soon as I
entered I could feel that history will be made here.
Would you have enjoyed competing in the Olympic Stadium?
Of course I would have loved to
compete here, and I’m sure Seb Coe feels the same! But the Stadium is for the next
generation and for them to create history now.
Are you excited about London 2012? How do you think the
London 2012 Games might be different from past Olympic and Paralympic Games?
London is a modern city with a lot of history at the same time. You can really feel the pace the city moves at. London is youthful and full of young people which will make the Games modern and unique!
You won two Olympic gold medals at Athens 2004 – what advice would you give to athletes hoping to win gold at London 2012?
Every competitor should live the whole experience to the full and
really enjoy their time here. They should make the most of it. They should try to
be successful and represent the Games in the best way they can.
Which athletes are you particularly looking forward to
seeing compete next summer?
There isn’t a particular athlete I can name
as I believe the London 2012 Games is where a whole new generation of athletes will come
through. I can't wait to see records broken and legends born!
