19 June 2008
A Conversation with a Top Paralympics Track Athlete
April Holmes discusses her life as a Paralympian
(begin transcript)
Reprinted with permission of the United States Olympic Committee from the Summer 2006 issue of Olympic Coach magazine. Olympic Coach is a free service of the USOC for all coaches. To subscribe: http://coaching.usolympicteam.com/coaching/ksub.nsf
April Holmes is one of the top female U.S. Paralympians in the sport of track and field. She won a bronze medal in the women’s long jump as well as setting three new World records in her classification in the 100 meters (12.98 seconds), 200 meters (27.20 seconds) and 400 meters (63.85). In the Paralympic Games, April has to compete in a combined classification (due to the number of participants) which is mostly composed of arm amputees, which puts her at a disadvantage. An extremely busy athlete, speaker and director of the April Holmes Foundation (developed to promote more opportunities for individuals with physical and developmental disabilities); she was able to provide us with a snapshot of what it is like being a Paralympian.
Tell us a little about your self and your competitive history.
I have been participating in track & field since I was five. My mom firmly believes in the idea of keeping a child busy and their mind occupied and they will stay out of trouble. Therefore, I was in everything from track to basketball to piano to ballet classes. Luckily for me I ended up being good in the sports, because I hated piano lessons and don't know what I would have done if I had to keep playing.
My uncle started a track club in Camden City, so I was able to learn the nuances of track, meet new people, and travel all over the country at a young age. My talents and efforts were instrumental in getting me a full track scholarship to Norfolk State University (NSU) in Norfolk, VA. During which time I achieved All-American and All-CIAA honors numerous times. My coach and mentor, LaVerne Sweat, helped prepare me for life after college by pushing education as well as athletics.
After graduating from NSU, I successfully landed a job and settled into the workforce. Five years later, I was in a train accident which resulted in the amputation of my left leg below the knee. I was very fortunate to have a doctor that knew about the Paralympics and he felt it his duty to introduce me to the next phase in my life which was Paralympic track & field. After four years of competition I hold the 100, 200, & 400 meter world records. I also just became the first woman signed to the Jordan Brand so that has enabled me to train full-time instead of trying to work and train. The road here has not been easy but I have managed to put it together when it comes time for competition.
Why did you choose track and field?
Track & Field was more like a process of elimination. The sport has provided me so many things and opportunities that I didn't get from other activities. It was more challenging and physical than ballet or piano. It allowed me to be out in the sun and meet new people.
What is a typical day like for you?
I usually wake up to the tune of my cell phone going off as the start of the millions of phone calls and text messages I get during the day. Then after grabbing a quick bite to eat I call my coach, Al Joyner, and head to the track for the workout. Practice usually lasts for about two hours on the track, and depending on the day of the week it also includes some extra drills or weight training.
The day does not seem to run quite right unless I take a nap, so I try my hardest to make sure I get one. The evening time is reserved as April time where I try to have a good dinner, listen to some music, take a bath, and talk to my mom, guy friend, and best friend. Before going off to bed I read some Biblical scripture then pray.
Does your disability limit you in training?
The only time I have known my disability to limit my training is if I am having mechanical issues or skin irritations. Otherwise I prefer to train with able bodied athletes because technically and mechanically my form must mirror that of an able bodied athlete instead of running like I have a prosthesis. I have been afforded the opportunity to train alongside Olympians who push me to run faster and train better.
As you see it, are there any significant differences between being an abled athlete v. a disabled athlete?
There is and should not be a significant difference. When we are finished working out, they change their shoes, I change out my leg. The only other thing is time; however, technological advances are aiding in the advancement of prosthetic components.
What advice would you give to a coach who may be considering working with disabled athletes?
Train them alongside and treat them equal to your able bodied athletes.
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