E267: Laura Kenny

Laura Kenny: Sacrificing Olympic Records To Put My Family First (E267)

Jake and Damian sit down with Olympic record-breaker Laura Kenny to discuss the highs and lows of her illustrious cycling career, and the personal challenges she's faced along the way.

Legendary British track and road cyclist Laura Kenny made her mark as a five-time Olympic champion and the most successful female cyclist in Olympic history. In this episode, Laura opens up to Jake and Damian about the intense pressure of competing at the highest level, and what led to her retirement this year.

Laura openly shares her experiences of the 2012 and 2016 Olympics, recounting the overwhelming nerves she felt and the unique mindset required to overcome such immense pressure. She also reflects on the invaluable support and lessons from her father, emphasising the importance of constructive feedback over harsh criticism.

Laura talks about the emotional toll of her struggles with conceiving and the impact it had on her mental health. She bravely shares how speaking out about her miscarriage and the pressures of being a top athlete helped her cope and heal.

This conversation provides important insights into managing pressure, fostering supportive relationships, and the crucial role of communication in overcoming personal challenges.