I first became involved in dragon boat racing about a year and a half ago at an open day and I have been hooked ever since, now paddling 6 times and weightlifting 3 times a week. I paddle with my club Soaring Dragons and we have just had a phenomenal race season, finishing top of the league in both mixed and women's categories.

Recently at selection trials in Liverpool I ranked 2nd overall. We had to do the following trials:

• 200m O1 time trial (1:20.31 - ranked 2nd)
• 500m O1 time trial (3:04.48 - ranked 2nd)
• 1000m O1 time trial (6:32.12 - ranked 2nd)
• 2 minutes of 30kg bench press (49 reps - ranked 4th)
• 2 minutes of 30kg bench pull (45 reps - ranked 4th)

All of these results were a massive improvement from pre-trials (especially on my 500m which I had a target of sub 3:20 for) and I am so happy with my progress and proud of myself. Now my attention turns to our 7 GB squad training weekends across the country, and eventually to final assessments before we fly out.

Mentally, especially over winter when it has been dark and icy, it has been so tough but my motivation and discipline has shone through. I have also spent quite a lot of extra time away from home, even during university holidays, which has been tough but worth it.

Thank you so much to Joe Humphries Memorial Trust for the Inspire Award, it has made a massive difference to me achieving my goals and aspiring to be a Great Britain athlete. It will contribute massively to both training and competition including flights, accommodation, kit and race fees.