Interview with Sharon Hannan, Coach of Sally Pearson [PODCAST]

On Aug 11th, I missed the final day of Athletics at the stadium to attend an evening with Sharon Hannan, coach of 100mH Gold medalist Sally Pearson. I could always watch the races later on BBC, but hearing Sharon Hannan live is a rare treat. Just like Jessica Ennis and her coaches three nights before during the 800m and 200m finals!.

Sharon was interviewed by Frank Dick for over an hour, followed by a reception for another hour.

It was great to hear the stories, training tips, and philosophy of this female coach in a male dominated profession. Plus all the challenges being a coach in Australia (Video interview later on the Blog)

I had a chance to ask a few questions that wasn’t covered in the Frank Dick video interview, but after 7 minutes, I turned off my recorder and we freely spoke about anything and everything. I felt it was better dynamics than have a microphone shoved up your face.

Sharon, if you are reading this, I hope you found your camera and credit cards!

In the audio recording, you will also hear John Bales, the CEO of Coaching Association of Canada (CAC) butt in and ask a few questions, too.

Interview with Sharon Hannan

I asked her about:

Sally Pearson’s 4x400m anchor leg at 2010 Commonwealth Games
The 10 day taper, her last track session and last weight session (you’ll be surprised at the answer)
How to prevent going crazy at the Athlete’s Village
Flight Time vs. Run Time and the sweet spot
Did you worry about the rain? A repeat of Crystal Palace?