Reading. Sport_6

Kirsty Wade, young athlete

I’ve always been keen on sport and very fit so a few years ago I decided to join my local athletics club. In the beginning I put all my effort into the long jump because it was my best event, but the coach encouraged me to try different things.

I ended up as a middle-distance runner, which means I don’t run the short distances like 100 metres, or long cross-country races, but the in-between ones like 800 metres. It’s an interesting type of running because you have to mix speed with strength. You also have to think a lot about how you race, and choose the right moment to run at your maximum speed. When you start, you need to train often, and a good coach can help you stay motivated and learn important skills.

Now, I take part in big competitions, but I still remember my first race. I was so nervous before it started. And when it finished, I could still feel my hands shaking. It was a great race and I came second so I was very happy. Since then, I’ve learned to stay calm before and during races. I do a lot of breathing exercises that help me stay focused and relaxed. Running in front of a crowd is exciting for me now – it feels a little like performing.

One thing I don’t like so much is that I have to train a lot to stay fit and strong. But training with others makes it easier. I try to eat and sleep well, but I don’t have a special diet. I just eat different kinds of food and more of everything because I’m so active.

I sometimes watch Olympic athletes on TV and imagine myself in their position. It must be an amazing experience. But right now, I don’t think that is my goal. I think you have to give up so much if you want to reach that level.

True or False

1 The writer first focused on the long jump before trying other events.

True or False

2 The writer wants to compete in the Olympics one day.

True or False

3 The writer prefers training alone rather than with others.

True or False

4 The writer enjoys running in front of a crowd.

True or False

5 The writer follows a strict diet to stay in shape.

True or False

6 The writer does breathing exercises to stay calm before races.

True or False

7 The writer feels confident before every race.

8 Why did the writer join an athletics club?

9 What does the writer say about 800-metre running?

10 What does the writer say about competing in races now?

11 What does the writer say about the food she eats?

12 Which best describes the writer?