For those who may not know you beyond your sporting career, how would you describe yourself?
I’m a mum to three boys, a dog lover, and someone who genuinely enjoys the peace of nature. These days, I’m also passionate about making people feel good about themselves. After retiring from athletics, I had to redefine who I am, and wellness has been a huge part of that journey. For me, it’s all about balance, purpose and helping others find joy in their everyday lives.
If you had to choose one moment that defined your career, what would it be?
Winning Olympic gold in Barcelona was a key moment for me and something I dreamed of as a child. It truly changed my life. However, I would say the 1993 World Championships in Stuttgart were even more defining. I was under immense pressure as the reigning Olympic champion, and I hadn’t been well in the lead-up to the race. I considered pulling out, but I ran, I won, and I broke the world record. That race taught me so much about mindset and how powerful thoughts can be. It was a moment of real growth.
Are there any lessons from your sporting career that you’ve carried with you into this next chapter?
Absolutely. Sport gave me the confidence to embrace the unknown. Aged 16, I was already flying off to faraway places, often alone, and that really shaped me. It also taught me to get comfortable with discomfort. I don’t need the same level of challenge now, but I still love that buzz of discovery.
As a professional athlete, you must have visited some truly incredible destinations...
Competing abroad as a youngster, I was visiting places I’d never even heard of. That sparked a passion for exploration I still have today. Back then, everything was strict routines and tight schedules, but now I really enjoy having the freedom to go with the flow. Cruising is perfect for that balance of activity and ease.
Where did you take your first cruise, and what stood out about the experience?
It was a Greek Islands cruise, and I had no idea what to expect, but waking up each morning in a different location, gliding into port as the sun rose – that was magical. It was unlike any other holiday I’d had: peaceful, restorative, and full of surprises.
Now you’re an experienced cruiser, talk us through your ideal day at sea...
It starts with a coffee out on my balcony, before a walk around the deck and maybe a workout. Then breakfast, followed by a bit of reading or a class, before lunch in the sunshine and some time in the spa. Evenings are flexible. Sometimes we get dressed up and go to the theatre, sometimes we keep it casual. It depends on how we’re feeling, and that’s what I love most about the whole cruise experience.
Which ships and cruise lines have impressed you most on your travels?
I’ve sailed with Cunard, Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean and others. They each have their strengths – Cunard is all about classic luxury, Celebrity feels beautifully designed and has incredible food, and Royal Caribbean has some of the best entertainment I’ve ever seen. It’s genuinely West-End worthy!
As someone who’s always prioritised health and wellbeing, can you give our readers some tips for staying active while on a cruise?
I bring my trainers and make sure I get my steps in. We’ll walk the decks, use the gym, sometimes go for a run or explore on foot when in port, and I love exercising as we sail into a new destination – it’s the best feeling. I also have massages and take time to unwind in the spa. That quietness is just as important as movement. For me, wellness is about looking after both body and mind.
You’ve had the honour of becoming a cruise ship godmother – what does that mean to you?
Being named as the godmother for Ambassador Cruise Line’s Ambience was such an honour, and it was a truly special day. It felt like a beautiful link between my love of travel and this new chapter in my life.
And now you’re set to be the new ambassador for ROL Cruise’s rewards programme, Cruise Miles. How did that come about?
As an athlete, I always believed in those little 1 per cent improvements, and ROL Cruise gets that. It really listens to people and helps them make the most of their holiday. I’m a big planner myself, and I could happily spend hours researching destinations, ships and experiences – it’s half the fun.
How would you describe Cruise Miles to someone new to the concept?
It’s like a thank-you to yourself. You earn points for doing something you love, and those points help take you on your next adventure. I love that – it keeps the excitement going.
