By Coach Ian Clark
I am sitting in an East London pub with a pint of lager, suffering from a bit of a hangover. This hangover is of a different sort however; unrelated to alcohol, this one comes the “morning after” the Closing Ceremony, a finale that marks the end of the most successful 11 days in Paralympics history.
This is a participants’ party, one that sees 4,000 athletes from 160 countries celebrate each other’s human and sporting triumphs; appropriately, they are saluted by artists of their generation – Coldplay and Rhianna.
Sipping my lager, I am content and proud as I reflect on the London 2012 performances of Jason Dunkerley, the Ottawa middle distance runner who I coach: first, a bronze in the 1,500 metres and a then a few days later, a silver medal in the 5000 m (in both events, Jason is classified in the T11 category: athletes who have no vision).
As I think of my coaching relationship with Jason, and Josh Karanja, his indispensable guide runner, I know that the three of us really began to prepare for this success 20 months ago.
This preparation addresses the critical components of thoughtful planning around training and racing, nutrition, injury prevention and rest. But at its core, the approach relies upon the tireless dedication of Jason and Josh – toughing-out the hard but necessary practices that I dish out to them in Ottawa over several months, day-in, day-out; good weather and bad.
A former competitive runner myself, I know there is no short-cut around these relentless efforts, as do Jason and Josh. It is a true team effort of three. That said, the lion’s share naturally goes to the runners; they are the ones who must perform.
As I begin to coach Jason in 2011, I am aware of his running ability, background and age. I decide to discuss with him the possibility of new approach to his training; he is receptive.
We agree to focus the next 18 months on increasing his maximum aerobic capacity through greater mileage and long-tough track repeats and hill-work, while simultaneously maintaining his speed and improving his running efficiency. Jason buys in to this approach, as does Josh.
The plan pays dividends as Jason continues to improve his times over both the 1,500 and the 5,000 events; his 5k time improves immensely. Jason and Josh become increasingly successful running and racing partners. I know that Jason relies on and has full confidence in Josh. Josh appreciates Jason’s efforts and toughness and, from my perspective, adds to Jason’s running by increasing his confidence and pushing him beyond his comfort zone.
As the Games near and as we taper the training, I know the two are mentally and physically ready. Race results and time trials in Ottawa have proven that. My conversations with both of them give me final comfort: they are fit, rested and confident.
In the final days and weeks in Ottawa, we discuss the opposition, principally Brazilian, Kenyan and Chilean, and agree upon our final strategies and tactics for both races. We have consensus: the goal is to win gold in both races. Inside, the three of us know this will be a tough achievement. In sport, as in life, one has to take risks. We do not take our opponents for granted.
Prior to leaving Ottawa, we learn of the Paralympic “buzz” in London – all 2.5 million tickets sold out for all events; the public demanding more. Our arrival in London demonstrates why Great Britain has been so successful in hosting these Olympic and Paralympic Games. Superb athletic facilities, transportation (the Tube; “mind the gap, please”), 24/7 print, television and electronic coverage and the ever-present, friendly and helpful volunteers dressed in purple.
But most importantly, the British, a sophisticated sporting people, have embraced the Games with their hearts and minds. The Games are simply the talk of the nation; a pleasant respite for a nation weary from the Euro-crisis, the economy and the spring rains.
Visiting Jason and Josh in the Athletes Villages, we enjoy a meal together, firming up each other’s confidence. These visits confirm to me that their needs are well met; they can focus on their upcoming performances without distraction.
I take my seat in the Olympic stadium for Jason’s 1,500 m semi-final. I am astonished that 80,000 screaming Brits are in attendance (for a semi!). I look around. I am moved