Is visualisation a technique you use? If so, how do you use this in javelin; what level of detail do you go to; where does it take you?
Dave: Visualisation is essential for javelin. Quite simply you cannot throw as many javelins in a year as you would like, certainly in the British climate. So, visualising your throw is a key tool to enhance practice and performance. Steve Backley dedicated a whole chapter to this topic in his book on mental preparation that I read all the way back in 1998 and I’ve valued it ever since. Successful javelin throwing requires an element of flow state and visualisation can certainly help you with developing your motor pattern.
Hollie: I visualise the event and performance whilst listening to music and this is very important to me. Javelin is also very rhythmical, when done well, so thinking of javelin like music can help.
How do you keep the challenge fresh and engaging bearing in mind your high level of success over many years?
Hollie: Learning new things, meeting new people (coaches and athletes) trying new things. Javelin is a lot like golf: there is no perfect round, there is no perfect throw. Even after a world record, athletes will look at the videos and say “if I just did this…” The important thing we have learned is to enjoy the good days and success. Because large periods of the year, in the depths of winter, can be a real battle. Particularly in 2020 when the Government stopped all sport – something David still thinks will have terrible long-term repercussions for sport and the health of the nation.
Thankfully, Loughborough University, where we’re based, was able to get elite athletics back up and running within six weeks of the first lockdown. Their dedication to getting sport back operating should be applauded.
Small achievable goals are what you need to help you get through and make a success of each day.
And finally... can you put into words what it feels like to win a Paralympic gold medal?
Hollie: It means everything…
This is what makes the personal, family and friend sacrifices all worth it.