A handful of Oxford’s leading sportsmen and sportswomen lift the lid on what it takes to succeed at the highest level… Mark Sproule (Ice Hockey): “After an undefeated regular season we came into the Varsity match confident that our team would be able to defeat a strong Cambridge squad. Scoring the winning goal in overtime was an incredible experience. The moment combined relief and exhilaration, making all of the work with the team worthwhile. It was a great moment and I felt privileged to share it with the entire team, who all played Nick Talbot (Athletics): “Athletics has been an important part of my time in Oxford. Given the fantastic traditions within the club, a particular highlight for me was beating the OUAC steeplechase record in 2002, as well as winning a record-breaking five consecutive individual Varsity Matches. Other highlights include a victory in the BUSA Championships, and claiming a team bronze at the World Student Cross-Country Championships in Spain last year.” Sarah Taylor (Judo): “Oxford judo achieved considerable success last year. Against stiff opposition, the women won a team gold medal at BUSA to add to individual Silver and Bronze medals. The sport represents a great opportunity, offering a good social life, an excellent way to keep fit and first-rate coaching for those who wish to pursue the sport at a higher level.” Nick Talbot (Athletics): “Athletics has been an important part of my time in Oxford. Given the fantastic traditions within the club, a particular highlight for me was beating the OUAC steeplechase record in 2002, as well as winning a record-breaking five consecutive individual Varsity Matches. Other highlights include a victory in the BUSA Championships, and claiming a team bronze at the World Student Cross-Country Championships in Spain last year.”ARCHIVE: 0th Week MT2003