#216: Rachel Andres-CalTaf (Calgary)

In this engaging episode of the Gill Athletics Connections Podcast, host Mike Cunningham is joined by Rachel Andres, a dedicated discus thrower hailing from Calgary, Canada. Rachel's journey in athletics is a testament to self-motivation and resilience. From her early fascination with javelin throwing to her transition into shot put and eventually discus, she navigated her path largely as a self-coached athlete, learning from videos of renowned athletes like John Powell and Brian Oldfield. Rachel's story is not just about sports, but also about balancing her athletic pursuits with the demands of motherhood. She candidly shares the ups and downs of this journey, providing a real and relatable perspective on the life of an athlete. Her commitment to her training regimen, which includes a significant focus on weightlifting, is a testament to her dedication and discipline. Rachel also discusses her time at Oral Roberts University, where she was coached by Chris Brown. She reflects on the impact of structured coaching on her performance and how it helped her evolve as an athlete. Her experiences provide valuable insights into the world of athletics, from the importance of trust in a coach-athlete relationship to the role of individualized coaching approaches. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in athletics, offering an in-depth look into the life of a committed athlete. It's a story of passion, perseverance, and the pursuit of excellence in sports. Tune in to hear Rachel's inspiring journey and gain valuable insights into the world of discus throwing. WATCH ON YOUTUBE   Want to have an exploratory conversation about YOUR track equipment needs? Connect with us: Host Mike Cunningham on Twitter: @mikecunningham Email: [email protected] Phone: 800-637-3090 Twitter: @GillAthletics Instagram: @GillAthletics1918 Facebook: facebook.com/gillathletics LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/gillathletics/