Originally a hurdler, Nicola overcame heartbreak and injury, and has risen to become a formidable sprinter and a Beijing hopeful. Among her many accolades, she won silver in the 2007 World Championships and became European Indoor Champion, both in the 400 metres. Last August she was also named British Woman Athlete of the Year.
She says her strength has always come from maintaining her sense of humour and listening to her body.