FORMER Coventry University student and GB elite pole vaulter Sophie Cook is looking to raise cash to fund her rehabilitation after an accident has left her struggling to keep her Paris 2024 Olympic dreams alive.
Sophie, who graduated from Coventry University in 2017 after studying physiotherapy, suffered a nasty accident in April when she landed back on the track and irritated a long-term knee issue.
She had knee surgery at the end of June, which ended up being more invasive than originally hoped, meaning a longer recovery.
Sophie’s athletic dreams are completely self-funded, and she also works two jobs as a physiotherapist.
However, she’s also struggling to work due to being on crutches post-surgery, meaning she can’t afford the rehab process needed to give her the best shot at achieving her goal of competing at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
Sophie’s career highlights include winning the British Indoor Championships in 2020 and 2022 as well as competing at the Commonwealth Games and European Championships last year.
She said: “This sport is something I dedicate my whole life to, so to say I am devastated to have ended my 2023 season is an understatement.
“My goal for this year was to go to European Team Championships and World Championships but I’ve unfortunately already had to pull out of the Europeans.
“My mission now is to throw everything I have at qualifying for Paris and any support people could give me would be hugely beneficial and I would be forever grateful.”
A JustGiving page has been set up and has so far raised £800 towards the £3,000 target.
Visit https://www.gofundme.com/f/gb-pole-vaulter-fund-rehab-post-surgery? to donate to Sophie’s cause.
