Ep: 46 The Extraordinary Comeback of Abbey Willcox

Ever wondered what it takes to bounce back from a broken leg and reclaim your place among the world’s top athletes? Meet aerial skier Abbey Willcox… Abbey was even cast aside by the Australian team six years ago, but refused to accept defeat, instead training with the Swiss squad to further her development. Now, four years after her first podium, Abbey has claimed her rightful place among the elite of the sport, with a top three finish at the World Cup event in Deer Valley. Abbey talks about almost quitting, and concentrating on her career in sports marketing with the Brisbane Broncos. She also shares her desire to push the boundaries for women, and provides insight on the risks required to reach the top. Join us for one of the best stories in Australian sport – The Perfect 10 with Abbey Willcox. Timestamps (00:11) Welcome to episode 46. (00:55) Recap including Glenn ‘Micro’ Hall and Molly Picklum’s Perfect 10 at Pipeline. (02:30) The sad passing of Men’s Marathon World record holder Kelvin Kiptum and his Coach. (04:04) Sponsor – Greg Ferguson, Operations Manager Robson Civil Projects. (06:04) Welcome Abbey Willcox and congratulations on Deer Valley Podium. (06:26) Overcoming challenges to climb back to the top. (07:54) Ignoring doubts and continuing the journey. (08:35) Waiting for scores after a superb performance. (10:46) I’ve had everything thrown at me. Mental toughness and perseverance. (11:57) The back lay full – what does that look like. (12:31) Push the sport for women. (13:26) The Numbers – speed, height and courage required to compete. (15:14) Are you a gymnast at heart or have you always loved skiing. (17:32) Great women in the sport. The legends who paved the way. (19:11) Working for the Brisbane Broncos. Premiers in 1992, 93, 97, 98, 2000 and 2006. (21:55) She’s Incredible – Nicola Olyslagers nee McDermott soaring to new records in High Jump. (22:26) Beautiful upbringing on a Central Coast property. (23:45) What are you reading and bingeing on if you watch TV. (25:14) World Cup rivals and Deer Valley – the Super Bowl of skiing. (28:29) Welcome back Greg Ferguson from sponsor Robson Civil Projects. Staff members celebrating 40 years. (29:40) Final wrap.