Reading , watching or hearing about people who overcome adversity always makes us feel good. We love to know that hard work pays off, that obstacles and challenges can be met and conquered, that a dark cloud has a silver lining and that when all seems lost, dreams and hopes become a reality.

This past week I was fortunate enough to be able to interview some Australian athletes who will soon be competing in the upcoming Olympics and Paralympics. I wanted to know a little more about their childhood and those that inspired them to overcome life’s challenges and excel in their chosen sports.

Christian Williams is working to qualify for the 2012 Olympics in the Archery team. Despite having a serious heart condition, Christian has learnt to make changes to his goals and aspirations in order to find a sport that allows him to safely compete. In doing so he has showed enormous dedication as well as a drive and persistence that he is keen to demonstrate to other young people hoping to follow their dreams. [Read more...]