The star explained why Tokyo 2020 was particularly challenging for her.
Bryony Page is Team GB’s most successful trampolinist, rebounding from the yips to claim an Olympic silver medal in 2016.
Who is Bryony Page?
Bryony Page, born on December 10, 1990, in Crewe, England, is a prominent British trampolinist known for her remarkable achievements in the sport. Her journey in trampolining began at a young age, igniting a passion that would define her career. Page started practicing trampolining when she was just nine years old. From those early days, it was evident that she had a natural talent for the sport, and her dedication soon became apparent as she committed herself fully to her training.
After completing her education at the University of Sheffield, where she balanced her studies with her athletic pursuits, Page decided to focus exclusively on trampolining. This decision marked the beginning of a new chapter in her life, where she would face numerous challenges and triumphs in her quest to excel in her chosen sport. Her commitment to trampolining was unwavering, but her early career was not without its hurdles.
In the early stages of her career, Page encountered a significant setback known as the yips—a condition that affects athletes by causing a sudden loss of fine motor skills and coordination. This issue impacted her confidence and performance, making it difficult for her to perform at her best. The yips were a formidable challenge, causing her to struggle with precision and control during her routines. Despite these difficulties, Page’s determination to overcome the condition remained strong.
Fortunately, Page sought help and worked with a confidence coach in 2010 to address the issues she faced. This intervention proved to be a turning point in her career, allowing her to regain her confidence and refine her skills. By 2010, she had managed to overcome the yips and showcased her talent on a global stage. At her first World Championships that year, Page made a notable impression by finishing fourth in the individual event, signaling her potential as a competitive trampolinist.
Despite this promising start, Page faced another setback when she missed the 2012 London Olympics due to illness and injury problems. Missing the opportunity to compete in her home country was undoubtedly disappointing, but Page did not let this deter her from her goals. Instead, she channeled her energy into continued training and improvement.
Her perseverance paid off as she achieved significant success in the years that followed. Between 2013 and 2015, Page secured three successive British Championship titles, demonstrating her dominance and consistency in the sport. Her impressive performances on the national stage paved the way for her to compete at the highest level.
The pinnacle of Page’s career came at the Rio 2016 Olympics. There, she made history by winning a silver medal in trampolining, becoming the first British trampolinist to earn an Olympic medal. This achievement was a testament to her resilience and dedication, marking a significant milestone in her career.
Following her success in Rio, Page continued to be a strong competitor on the international stage. At the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, which were held in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, she faced new challenges. The absence of a live audience added to the intensity of the competition, making it a unique and demanding experience. Despite these challenges, Page secured a bronze medal, adding another prestigious accolade to her list of achievements. Reflecting on the Tokyo Olympics, Page acknowledged the difficulties she faced due to the lack of an audience and the heightened media scrutiny. She expressed a desire for a more traditional competition experience with a live crowd.
As of now, Bryony Page is gearing up for her third Olympic Games, set to take place in Paris in 2024. Her experience and previous successes make her a strong contender for continued success on the Olympic stage. Page’s dedication to her sport and her ability to overcome obstacles have solidified her reputation as one of Team GB’s most accomplished trampolinists.
The Paris Olympics will officially kick off on Friday, July 26, 2024, and will culminate on Sunday, August 11, 2024. For trampolining enthusiasts and fans of Page, the key date to watch will be Friday, August 2, when the trampoline final is scheduled to take place. Page’s participation in this event will be highly anticipated, and her performance will be closely watched as she aims to add another medal to her impressive collection.
In summary, Bryony Page’s journey from a young trampolinist with a passion for the sport to an Olympic medalist is a story of resilience, determination, and excellence. Her ability to overcome challenges, such as the yips and injury setbacks, highlights her dedication and commitment to achieving her goals. As she prepares for the Paris Olympics, Page’s legacy as a leading figure in British trampolining continues to grow, inspiring future generations of athletes to pursue their dreams with unwavering determination.