Until I started training with Pete ‘Roscoe’ Ross in 1990 I was a talented but unmotivated athlete. He change my whole attitude towards training and instilled in me self-belief that has helped me in my running and all aspects of my life.
As a 400m runner having some success at Royal Air Force athletics I was injured and required major surgery on my ankle. After a protracted period of rehabilitation, Roscoe’s encouragement and his unsurpassesd knowledge convinced me I could be a top athlete.
I was 22 a time when most athletes already had reached the top of their profession. From running my first 400m races in 52 secs, under Roscoe’s tutelage I achieved a sub 50second 400m (48 secs) on my first full season, 4 seconds faster than my previous PB!
Due to the weakness of my ankles my training had to be adapted to swimming pool workouts. Numerous mornings and late nights were spent ‘Aqua jogging’ and my rehab work consisted on building up my strength and stamina with non-impact training. Pete would often remind me this was how race horses would be nursed back from injury.
My athletics career over (just waiting to be 40 so I can compete as a veteran), I have maintained a level of fitness many a 20 year old would envy. My achievements are as follows: Combined Services Champion several years running, Midland County No. 2 over 800mtrs with PB’s of 47.3 and 1.52.3 for my chosen disciplines. Pete’s contribution to these achievements has been immense. He was an iconic figure amongst fitness professionals in the armed forces: if your serious about health & fitness check out his qualifications and experience and give him a call!
Having had 4 children in five and a half years and a split abdomen, I hadn't the time or the energy to lose the weight I'd put on through each pregnancy.
Hazel's positive approach and achievable goals made the journey back to fitness actually enjoyable. Tailoring my programme so that it fitted in with 'real life', she believed in me so I could start believing in myself.
Eighteen months after taking the first small steps, (and 3 stone lighter), I am about to compete in my first triathlon on Aug 27th in Malmesbury.