At some point in our career we all face setbacks. Unfortunately my setback hit at the beginning of prime competition.

Firstly, I had a knee injury which forced the decision not to compete at the State All-Schools in October. Following this I had a bad flu which caused troubles breathing during heavy training, and inturn I had to review my asthma medication, with a final decision to increase the dosage.

As a result my training had to be modified and I was not in top form, and certainly would not be at my peak ready to compete at the Australian All-Schools in Hobart. 

My coach and I talked it over and decided that I should redirect my training and focus on the main picture, being the National Championships in March as well as the NSW state titles in February.

I believe this was a wise, and the best decision, although it has been a mental challenge, to re-direct my focus, and to sit back and watch my fellow colleagues compete, but in the end I believe it has made me a stronger person.

I am now back to base training (speed endurance). I feel that I am back on track! I have been able to overcome the setbacks that have prevented me from competing at both All-School competitions.

I am now very much looking forward to getting back into general competition, which includes the upcoming Schools Knockout competition this month. 

Until my next journal update I will leave you with the following - Remember to never give up on the big goal and always stay focused on the path. 

Zoe Riikonen

Note: Zoe has been named as part of the shadow squad for the upcoming World Junior Championships which will take place in Canada in 2010. Congratulations!