Nicole Yeargin overcomes a tough season, finds renewed determination, and focuses on securing her spot in Team GB for the Paris Olympics.
Scottish sprinter Nicole Yeargin has shared her struggles and renewed determination ahead of the upcoming 2024 Paris Olympics.
At 26, Yeargin, who has previously clinched World, European, and Commonwealth Games bronze medals in the 4x400m relay, experienced a series of setbacks that tested her spirit and resolve.
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Reflecting on her challenging indoor season, Yeargin shared with BBC Sport Scotland her moments of doubt.
"When I came off the indoor season, I was a little bit like 'What is going on, shall we hang these [spikes] up? I don't know if I have got it in me'," she admitted.
The disappointments of a poor showing at the British Indoor Championships and missing out on the World Indoor Championships in Glasgow had taken their toll.
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However, a pivotal conversation with her coach and a deep introspection led her to a resurgence of confidence and determination. "But then I talked with my coach and realized what went wrong and if we can change it, I have full confidence I can make it back," Yeargin added.
Yeargin's journey in athletics is a testament to resilience. Having only taken up the sport eight years ago, she made her Olympic debut at the Tokyo Games, competing in the women's 400m as well as in both the women's and mixed 4x400m relays.
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Despite the setbacks, she believes that these experiences have only made her a more mature athlete.
"I feel like I am definitely an adult now," she commented, noting the personal and professional growth that has come from navigating the challenges of her career.
Born and based in the United States but competing for Scotland and Great Britain due to her Scottish heritage, Yeargin has noticed a significant change in the sprinting landscape within Team GB since Tokyo.
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The emergence of new talents and the progression of existing athletes have heightened the competition, something Yeargin is keenly aware of.
"We have got so much stronger in the last three years," she observed, highlighting the depth in the team as demonstrated by the new British record set by Lina Nielsen, Laviai Nielsen, Ama Pipi, and Jessie Knight at the World Indoor Championships.
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Looking ahead, Yeargin is focused on securing her place in Paris, undeterred by the competitive environment.
"It is going to be a dogfight this year," she stated, emphasizing her readiness to navigate through the selection process. Her approach this time around reflects a significant evolution in her mindset and preparation strategy.
Unlike in Tokyo, where her schedule was largely predetermined, Yeargin now takes a more proactive role in planning her training and competitions.
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"I make my own schedule, that is the maturity of knowing what I can and can't do and when I should do something and when I shouldn't," she explained.
With a renewed sense of purpose and a clear focus on her goals, Nicole Yeargin is poised to make her mark at the Paris Olympics.
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