Emma Finucane, the Welsh cycling champion, is gearing up for the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow with a sense of calm determination. Despite her impressive achievements, including Olympic gold and multiple world titles, Finucane remains grounded and focused on her goal of standing on the podium in Scotland. In an exclusive interview, she reveals her mindset and the key to her success.
A Different Mindset, A Different Approach
Finucane's journey to the top has been fueled by her experiences at the Commonwealth Games. Four years ago in Birmingham, she was a young, naive athlete, overwhelmed by the sport's intensity. But that initial Commonwealth Games experience proved to be a turning point. "I would not be where I am today without the Commonwealth Games," she asserts. The event served as a springboard, providing her with the confidence and momentum to rapidly progress in her career.
The 23-year-old's perspective has evolved significantly since her last Commonwealth Games appearance. "I feel like I'm a different person four years on," she says. "I can't wait to show what I can do on the track."
A Competitive Partnership
Finucane's partnership with fellow cyclist Matt Richardson adds an intriguing dynamic to her life. Their relationship is built on a foundation of healthy competition and mutual support. "We are really competitive people," she explains. "If it's a game of Monopoly or it's a bike race, we are competitive and I think we use that to our strength."
The couple's understanding of each other's emotions and experiences in the sport is a unique advantage. "He understands completely what I'm feeling or how the times are, what I'll be happy with or what I'll be disappointed with," Finucane shares. This level of empathy is rare and invaluable in a highly competitive environment.
The Commonwealth Games: A Platform for Legacy
As the Commonwealth Games approach, Finucane embraces the pressure with a unique perspective. "For us, there's pressure everywhere," she acknowledges. "But I also feel calm coming into this Commonwealth Games; I have nothing to prove."
Her goal is clear: to stand on the top step of the podium and enhance her legacy in the sport. "I want to win as much as I can, I want to be on the track as much as I can, representing Team Wales," she declares. The Commonwealth Games, in her eyes, are a platform to showcase her growth and achievements.
Finucane's journey in Glasgow promises to be a captivating spectacle, as she navigates the challenges of elite competition with her signature blend of determination and calmness.
