Blog: "The Start Gun has Sounded!"

The start gun has sounded after all. It's so good to say that, I can't stop smiling, it feels incredible. I have missed the joy of racing so much. The frustration and sense of loss has lifted and a new training approach is in practice. It hasn't been all that long but it has certainly made a difference, I am back on that start line and I have never been so relieved to hear that start gun. For each one of my recent races I have seen improvements in all of my times, eager for the next race. That's how it should be, previously being on that start line was like being stuck in a big cobweb and dragging it along trying to push and going nowhere fast… not pleasant. The cobwebs have shifted and so to has my mindset it's no longer in a fog of despair wondering what to do. It is clear, reset and focused. Where I need to be to progress and achieve greater things.

As my smile continues to beam brightly my latest race took me back to the Olympic Park Stadium on that iconic track. Yes it's home to the London 2012 Olympics and Paralympic Games and London 2017 World Championships but to me it is so special because it is where I made my Great Britain debut, at that time I felt nothing but excitement I was there fulfilling my dream and this thought along with everything else I have learnt over the past six months carried me through when on that start line at this year's Müller Anniversary Games for the 100m T33/T34 final. I absolutely loved every second! It was by far my favourite performance there to date, I achieved a huge seasons best of over two seconds, bettered my time from last year and I finished in 3^rd place. What a fantastic atmosphere, the crowd were amazing! Brilliant to be joined by some new athletes in both classes and to have T33 athletes in the line up too great to race with you all, well done!

I am proud to be where I am and I am determined to succeed within the sport I very much love. A massive THANK YOU to all who have and continue to support me. I have so much love and respect for TEAM SOOTY they are the best. An essential part of my team is of course TEAM HAMBO an incredible extension of support with athletics adventure, it wouldn't have been as it is without them thanks guys and girls for everything. "Get Busy Living! Racing"

The photo says it all, I am smiling again – Photo credit Peter Milsom

There is so much more to come…

Take care. Paige x