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Zoe's Diary: The Path to PyeongChang Ep.1

Written by Jenny Brannan | Oct 27, 2017 8:24:26 AM

Hi there readers and welcome to a brand new segment of Zoe’s Diary in collaboration with defibshop.co.uk.

As you’re reading this, I am currently preparing for the fast-approaching Olympics in PyeongChang, South Korea! Before I know it, it’ll be here! I can’t believe how fast time is going.

I’ve just started my European pre-season on snow training. I’ve completed one week in Switzerland and almost two weeks in Austria so far. I have a big block of training ahead of me which started at the beginning of October and will continue until the 10th of December, or somewhere around that date.

In the lead up to PyeongChang, there are various competitions that I’ll be competing in. The more competitions I do, the more preparation I have under my belt for when the Olympics do arrive.

I’ve competed in two World Cups so far. The first one was all the way in Argentina where my teammate, Maisie Potter and I finished side by side on the results board. The next World Cup is going to be a hectic one, I know that for sure.

I’ll be travelling to France, Austria and Italy to compete in three world cups in a row all in the space of a 10-day period! I already know how crazy that’s going to be, especially with Léa who’s now found her feet. She’ll be snowboarding before she knows it.

During all of this training, I’ve not gone anywhere without my trusty defibrillator. Knowing I have a device that can save a life is a pretty great feeling. As you’ve probably learnt from defibshop’s educational blog, sudden cardiac arrest does not discriminate, and no one is immune. By having one of these devices close by and ready for use, you’ll be able to provide the highest chance of survival.

If more athletes made the decision to be heartsafe and protect themselves and their team, more people would survive. Despite taking my AED with me, that hasn’t stopped me from looking out for them in all the places I visit! The #defibworld80 gallery is still open so remember to send in your snaps – I will be!

On top of 5 days on-snow training, I’m still in the gym 4 days a week too! I’ve got to make sure I’m in tip-top shape for all my competitions, not just the Olympics. The training is hard, but it’s helping me to stay focused on the end goal, PyeongChang.

Now, there’s no way I can do a diary post and not mention my little bundle of joy, Léa! Léa celebrated her first birthday back in August and when she was just 1 year and 1 day old, she took her first ride on her very first snowboard… on grass. To say I’m proud is an understatement.

Life with a baby was busy, but life with a toddler is even busier! I honestly didn’t even think that was possible, but I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Well, that’s about all the updates I have for you so far, the snow is calling my name. Who am I to not grab my board and enjoy the slopes?

Keep your eyes open for my next update on the lead up to PyeongChang and have a great day!

Zoe.