GRANTHAM high jumper Vikki Hubbard believes the frustrations of watching the Olympics on television will help her come back from injury stronger than ever.
The Birchfield Harriers ace had her London 2012 dreams dashed by a recurring ankle injury in February and since then has been unable to compete.
It is another bad break for Vikki who suffered a career-threatening injury to her ankle in 2007 and missed virtually the entire 2008 season before bouncing back to not only walk again but also to return to competing.
And, while disappointed to be missing out on a home Olympics, Loughborough-based Vikki is determined to take as many positives as she can from the situation and now has the upcoming indoor season firmly in her sights.
Vikki, who benefits from being a member of the Lloyds TSB Local Heroes programme, said it was “horribly frustrating” to miss out on the Olympics.
She said: “My aim now is the upcoming indoor season – I know I’ll be back in time for that and my aim is to be as competitive as possible.
“The important thing is not dwelling on what you’re missing out on, you have to stay mentally strong so that you can come back physically strong when the time is right.
“I came back from a big injury in 2009 and beat my personal best in my second competition – so I have no doubt I can return and be competitive.
“I’m really excited to watch the Olympics. Watching it all from my living room and not being there is great motivation going forward.”
The former Kesteven and Grantham Girls’ School pupil is also excited at the improvements that are bound to be made in grassroots participation from the home Games.
The 23-year-old took up high jump 11 years ago at an Aviva Sportshall meeting and was hooked instantly, and she hopes that the huge draw of the Games will inspire today’s young generation to do the same.
Vikki said: “If you look at the attention it’s all received, it’s such a big deal for everyone. Across all sports there is a real buzz generated by the Olympics, everyone wants everyone else to get involved and it’s great.
“I think we’ll see a great amount of youngsters wanting to try sports like high jump after the Games, so I think the Games will clearly leave a lasting legacy.”
l Lloyds TSB Local Heroes, in partnership with SportsAid, provides support and funding to 346 of Britain’s most talented developing athletes on their journey to London 2012 and beyond. Since 2008, the programme has supported 1,000 athletes. Follow future stars at facebook.com/lloydstsblocalheroes