Great Britain’s star of the London 2012 Paralympics, Jonnie Peacock, is back from injury and hungry for more success. The T44 100m champion is looking to recapture the form that saw him dazzle on ‘thriller Thursday’ two summers ago, and feels he’ll soon to be back to his best. Having had time to reflect upon his achievements, the 21-year-old told me a few things about what he hopes to achieve next.
What is your current situation?
I’m in a good place as I’ve started competing again; it is good to finally get back in the blocks. Unfortunately Richard Browne pipped me to the post in Glasgow last week, but he was better on the day and it was a very close race.
What are your hopes this year?
The main goal this season is to get a medal in Swansea, at the European Championships. I will definitely have some fun with it. But it always takes me a few races to get back into it.
Has London 2012 lifted the profile of Paralympic sport?
The 2012 London Olympics moved Paralympic sport on a good 12 to 15 years. There were strong competitors and many rivalries, but overall a lot of great athletes. Now there are a lot of great events, especially in the UK, and it shows progress is being made.
What role have the IAAF played?
The IAAF have been great help this year; it is great have having Diamond events on here in 2014. Glasgow was a great competition, athletes and fans still enjoy it and that is what we want to show.
Do young athletes need more encouragement?
We have great competitions for younger athletes in the UK. Sainsbury’s School Games is really good; I competed in it when I was younger. You can draw things from it and take it with you when competing in future competitions.
There are four tiers so everyone can get involved; from racing at the top to kids running an egg and spoon race. You’ll probably find that most athletes went and competed in it, so I think we do very well in this country.
I took the experience away from it; it helps you figure what to do and how to deal with things. I broke my prosthetic leg playing football, so learnt what not to do too!
Who were your sporting idols growing up?
I’ve always been a David Beckham fan. But as a Liverpool supporter, you look to an athlete like Steven Gerrard. He has put a lot of hard work into his career, and you take that on board and try to put it into your own career. I want to be the best I can be.
What’s been your proudest moment?
It has to be 2012. I can’t really put it into words. I want to replicate it and leave the sport feeling that I’ve accomplished everything that I possibly could. Rio 2016 that is the next big thing and I want to medal there too.
