One of the greatest-ever British sportswomen, Dame Kelly Holmes realised a dream at the Olympic Games in Athens in 2004 by winning two gold medals over 800m and 1500m. Her stunning performance was the British highlight of the Athens Games and catapulted Kelly to global superstardom – she was named world sportswoman of the year in 2005 – and, though retired, she still holds British records in numerous events (including the 800m and 1500m). She served in the Army for almost 10 years, reaching the rank of sergeant, and proved her all-round sporting ability by becoming Army judo champion. In 2009 Dame Kelly Holmes was named as the new president of Commonwealth Games England.
What is your favourite training session?
I like doing 200m reps and two-mile tempo runs on the road. I also like circuit training.
What is your least favourite training session?
I dislike mile/2K repetitions on the track and hate hill running.
Who is your sporting hero?
For obvious reasons it used to be Sebastian Coe – also a double Olympic gold medallist ... now I like watching world-class tennis players.
What was your first race?
It was a cross country event at school when I was beaten by a girl called Stacey Washington. I was forced to do the race by my schoolteacher but then I was hooked.
What is your favourite race venue?
I love running in the London Grand Prix at Crystal Palace ... I also think the BUPA Great North Mile on Newcastle Quayside is a fantastic event.
If you were not a full-time athlete, what would you have done?
I would have stayed in the Army for 22 years, where I was a sergeant and a physical training instructor.
What is your greatest running achievement?
I’ll have to think about that! It could have been winning two Olympic gold medals!
What interests do you have?
I enjoy judo and weightlifting sports. I also enjoy walking my dogs. I like watching big athletics events such as the Beijing Olympic Games.
In the hours leading up to a race, how do you prepare?
I like to sit back and relax, listening to music to motivate me as I think about my tactics.