Sophie Capwell, a 25-year-old cyclist, is gearing up for her Olympic debut in Paris this summer as part of the first British women’s team sprint to qualify for the Games since London 2012. This achievement holds special significance for Capwell, as it follows in the footsteps of her late father Nigel, who made his Paralympic debut in Atlanta 28 years ago.
Nigel, a fellow cyclist, finished fourth at both the Atlanta and Sydney Games before passing away in 2021. Despite the challenges she has faced along the way, Capwell finds comfort in the connection she feels to her father’s legacy. She reminisces about the wisdom her father imparted to her, urging her to aim higher than bronze, as he had fallen just short of a medal in his own Olympic pursuits.
As Capwell reflects on her journey, she acknowledges the trials and tribulations she has encountered but remains determined to honor her father’s legacy by pushing herself to new heights. She draws inspiration from his pioneering spirit and hopes to carry that with her to the Games. Embracing the pressure that comes with competing at the highest level, Capewell is focused on giving her best performance on the track.
A recipient of UK Sport’s National Lottery-funded World Class Programme, Capwell is among the elite athletes who have access to top-tier coaches, training facilities, and medical support. This support system has been instrumental in shaping her journey towards the Paris 2024 Games, where she aims to make a mark alongside her teammates, Emma Finucane and Katy Marchant.
The trio is poised to make history by vying for Great Britain’s first-ever medal in the team event, building on their success with back-to-back European silvers in recent years. Capewell is confident in their ability to deliver a strong performance, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and mutual support in their pursuit of success.
Capewell highlights the unique dynamic within their team, where each member plays a crucial role based on their strengths and contributions. Despite the competitive nature of their sport, the camaraderie and respect they share off the track only serve to make them stronger competitors on it. Regular coffee outings and moments of relaxation help them bond and recharge, fostering a sense of unity and solidarity within the team.
The support of National Lottery players, who contribute over £30 million a week to funding sport at all levels, has been instrumental in enabling athletes like Capewell to pursue their Olympic dreams. Through their generosity, these players contribute to the development of athletes from grassroots to elite levels, ensuring that individuals like Capewell have the resources they need to compete on the world stage.
As Capewell looks ahead to her Olympic debut in Paris, she carries with her the legacy of her father, the support of her teammates, and the backing of a nation that believes in her potential. With a strong foundation of training, teamwork, and unwavering determination, she is poised to make her mark on the Olympic stage and continue the legacy of excellence that has defined her family’s involvement in the sport.
