Best Odds Center
best odds centre button
Click here!
Sport TV
watch live tv button
Click here!
to watch
Live FootBall
NPFL
Click here!
Live Scores
play watch Live Score button
Click here!

Sophie Wells Reflects on Evolving Mindset Ahead of Paris Paralympics Team Event

Posted : 06 September 2024

Sophie Wells, one of Britain’s most decorated equestrian Paralympians, reflected on how her perspective on winning has evolved over the years. At 34, she admits that the euphoria of securing gold is fleeting, lasting only moments before life returns to normal. Wells, who has won four gold and four silver medals across the London, Rio, and Tokyo Paralympics, added a bronze to her collection this week and remains focused on the upcoming team and freestyle competitions in Paris.

 

Wells, who has amniotic band syndrome, limiting movement in her feet and fingers, has 39 championship medals in total. As she prepares for her next events, she recognizes how time has changed her approach to competing. “I’m more emotional now,” she said, expressing gratitude for any medal, regardless of color. She recalls being more naive and single-minded when she won gold in 2012 but now understands that the joy of winning fades quickly, and identifying too closely with being a gold medalist can lead to disappointment.

 

 

Despite her allergies to horses, Wells has achieved remarkable success in equestrian sports. Raised on a farm, she initially rode Shetland ponies before realizing her severe allergic reactions. Although her allergies remain, she continues to compete at the highest level, even against able-bodied riders in Grand Prix competitions. While she dreams of one day becoming an Olympian, she acknowledges that without the right horse, that goal remains elusive.

 

Wells carries a few personal lucky charms that have accompanied her throughout her career. One is a necklace with hearts, symbolizing her bond with her late dog, Tia. Another is a toy giraffe named Daphne, gifted by her coach in 2009, which has been present at all of her medal-winning performances. Wells humorously admits that asking her coach if Daphne is with her before competing has become a pre-competition ritual that "drives her mad."

ADD A COMMENT :

Hot Topics

close button
Please fill captcha :