Jolie Ruckley

Interview

How did you first get involved in your sport?

I was taken along to the local leisure centre age 3 to take part in gymtots! The coach spotted my talents and sent me along to the recreational gymnastics class in the same leisure centre when I was 5. It was there that I met my first gym coach who encouraged to join a gymnastics club, Cardiff Olympic. Within 3 years I was in the Welsh Squad and then after a successful Level 3 competition, I was invited to GB squad. Just before my Espoir Championships in 2014, I moved to train full time at Sport Wales and have been there ever since.

What does a typical week look like for you?

Sunday is my full day off gym. What it actually means to me now is a day to catch up on homework as I miss some sessions during the week to train. My fist session of the week is Monday afternoon. On Tuesday I have a double session, early morning and then back again after school. Wednesday I have only a morning session, but then double sessions for the rest of the week and a long morning session on Saturday. I try to fit in dog walks before my morning sessions as I have a 2 year old Akita and I spend time with my dad a couple of evenings after gym and on a Saturday afternoon. I don't get to spend a lot of time with my school friends but I obviously see my gym friends a lot!

What motivates you to continue in your sport?

With my injuries over the last two years, I've had to dig deep with regard to motivation! I think I'm a naturally competitive person and my first coach instilled a really strong work ethic in me. Gym has been such a big part of my life since I was little and I'm pleased to say I still really enjoy the sport. Success motivates me to work harder in the gym to have a good outcome in competitions.

Who is your sporting hero and why?

I don't really have a sporting hero but I admire Mustafina - after suffering such a bad injury in 2011 and them coming back to win 4 medals in the 2012 olympics - it puts your own injuries into perspective.

What do you do in your free time?

Sport has always been in my life! I don't know a life without gymnastics. All I know is that when I'm injured I get frustrated and miss the gym! What is free time???? I love spending time with my friends when I can.