On Tuesday, the College was delighted to welcome two-time Olympian Abi Oyepitan, who spoke to Year 12 students about her remarkable sporting career, the challenges she faced along the way, and the resilience required to succeed both on and off the track. Abi’s visit formed part of the College’s wider careers and enrichment programme, offering students the opportunity to learn from real-life experiences beyond the classroom.
Abi represented Great Britain at the Athens Olympic Games in 2004, where she achieved outstanding success as a finalist in the 200 metres and a semi-finalist in the 100 metres. These achievements marked her as one of the country’s leading sprinters at the time. However, soon after the Athens Games, Abi’s career was disrupted by a series of serious shin and Achilles injuries. These setbacks not only halted her progress but also cast significant doubt over whether she would be able to continue competing at an elite level.
During her talk, Abi spoke candidly about the physical and mental challenges she faced during her recovery. She shared the story of her treatment, rehabilitation and the long periods of uncertainty that tested her confidence and determination. Through focus, perseverance and a strong support network, Abi was able to overcome these obstacles and reignite her athletic career.
Her determination paid off when she successfully secured a place on Team GB for the London 2012 Olympic Games. Competing on home soil, Abi reached the semi-finals of both the 100 metres and 200 metres, a remarkable achievement following the setbacks she had previously endured.
Since retiring from professional athletics, Abi has continued to embrace new challenges. She has gone on to establish her own beauty business and has even sailed around Australia, demonstrating the same ambition and adaptability that defined her sporting career.
Abi’s visit was truly inspiring, and her message about the importance of resilience, persistence and self-belief resonated strongly with our students. It was a pleasure to hear her story, and we are grateful to Abi for sharing such valuable insights that will undoubtedly motivate students as they navigate their own academic and career journeys.
After what will be six years with the college, our Principal, John Wilson, will be leaving us at the end of the current academic year to take up a new role at a school in Central London. We wish John well and thank him for his exceptional service and contribution to the college and his commitment to our students.