‘Inspirational’; the sentiment repeated in every conversation at ‘An Evening with… Helene Raynsford: The Boat and Beyond; the Road to Beijing’ on February 18th.
Helene Raynsford
The lecture detailed Helene’s rise to win gold in the arms-only single scull at the Beijing Paralympics in 2008, only three years after taking up rowing and amidst a number of complications. Helene also discussed her life since the Paralympics, including the diagnosis of a heart condition, and attempting to retain her title at the 2012 London Games.
Until the age of 17 Helene had been a promising dancer at the Royal Ballet School, however injury ended her career and she turned to studying Medical Biochemistry at Royal Holloway. Then five weeks before the start of her final year, aged just 21 years old, Helene experienced a serious brain injury that left her unable to walk and affected her memory and concentration. Adding to the extreme situation faced by her family, her sister was diagnosed with cancer only weeks after Helene’s accident.
Despite all of these problems, Helene was desperate to return to her studies and, thanks to support from Royal Holloway and her family and friends, graduated in 2003. She strongly believes that without going back to university, which went against medical advice, she would not have the independent life that she leads today.
Helene’s fondness for Royal Holloway has also seen her returning to study for an MSc in Human Neuroscience, a course suggested to her when she became an Honorary Fellow in May 2009.
Aiding her rehabilitation through sport Helene began swimming before turning to basketball, where she joined the Great Britain Women’s Wheelchair Basketball Team and won silver medals in the Paralympic World Cup (2005 and 2006). However, after a summer cross-training programme Helene fell in love with rowing and switched sports.
When questioned on the effects of changing sports Helene admitted that she preferred having sole responsibility for her own success.
Helene achieved instant success in rowing, including becoming World Champion and qualifying for the Beijing Paralympics, despite being hampered by injuries, illness and a loss of confidence. However, dedication to her sport ensured that she would become the first person to win a Paralympic Gold for rowing. Helene also plans to defend her title in 2012; although a heart condition now restricts her training.
Whilst obviously aware of her talents Helene is neither arrogant nor condescending. She is also extremely honest – a refreshing change to the mentality of deceit currently seen in sport.
“The Boat and Beyond; the Road to Beijing” was an incredibly inspiring talk by someone with immense motivation and a determination to succeed against all odds. A fantastic role model, Helene Raynsford is indeed a very special individual.
