Audrey Jackson was introduced to athletics at the age of 15.
Noting that the latter had real potential in sprinting, her physical education teacher invited her to practice this sport at school level (RSEQ). The young athlete then decided to follow this path, focusing particularly on the 200 and 400 meters.
When she entered the University of Montreal, the medical student then joined the Carabins with which she began her fourth season in the U Sports network.
His next goal? Take advantage of his 10 years of experience in athletics by participating in the Paris 2024 Olympic Games in the 4 x 400 meter relay!
What has been your greatest sporting achievement?
My participation in the Canada Games in August 2022. I came 2nd in the 400m, in addition to setting a personal best under 54 seconds. I also won the bronze medal in the 200m, then participated in the 4 x 100m relay which won gold and broke a Canadian record. Finally, I won the gold medal in the 4 x 400 m, while setting a Quebec record.
So far, what have been your biggest challenges?
My biggest challenge was to combine my medical studies with the practice of my high-level sport, while excelling in these two spheres of my life. Having such a busy schedule was not always easy and I had to make important choices to be able to devote time to my two passions.
What are your tips for balancing studies, sport and social life?
My first trick is to establish a precise schedule to be able to organize myself during the week (studies, training, care, etc.). I also keep a few hours a week to see my family, go out with friends or have time with my partner. Finally, it is important to listen to your body and set aside time to take care of yourself.
What skills are required to practice athletics?
It is important to be disciplined, persevering and independent, but also to have leadership, especially during the relay. Over the years, I have been able to develop these skills which are now very important to me for the practice of medicine. Stress management is also very important in an individual sport where all the pressure is on our shoulders to perform. Self-confidence is also an aspect that I work a lot to improve my sports and professional performance.
What advice would you give to a young person wishing to practice a high level sport?
My first piece of advice would be to never give up on your dreams and work to achieve them. It is important to focus on your goals, your development and your potential, and not to compare yourself to others. You also need to have a healthy balance in life and enjoyment in the practice of your sport. Finally, it is essential to know that a sporting path is different from one person to another and that there will probably be several pitfalls before achieving your goals. The important thing is to never give up and focus on small daily wins.
What prompted you to study medicine?
Since I was 5 years old, my dream has been to become a doctor. I have always had an interest in biology, the human body and the helping relationship. Being able to help people in illness and accompany them in good and bad times is a privilege that is very close to my heart. The advancement of knowledge in medicine is another subject that fascinates me. Currently, I am in my first year of family medicine residency. My medium-term goal is to specialize in either obstetrics or sports medicine.
Do you have time to get involved in your community?
At the start of the pandemic, I worked in a CHSLD as a beneficiary attendant while continuing my sport and my studies. A cause to which I am very attached is also to promote the practice of sport among people with psychomotor difficulties, but also young people with socio-economic difficulties. In fact, it has been shown that doing physical exercise and being in good company allows young people to develop to the best of their abilities, despite the difficulties they may experience in their daily lives.
Profile
Age: 24 years old
Sport: Athletics
Rating: Elite
School: University of Montreal
School average: Success (residence)
Study program: Medicine
Burst questions
What other sport would you have liked to practice?
Le soccer.
What do you prefer to eat when you compete?
Pasta the day before the competition, oatmeal the morning of it and a good pizza or poutine followingwards!
What does a typical day off look like for you?
Staying on my couch with my dog and my cat and watching movies or series all day.
What is your favorite TV series?
Grey’s Anatomy.
Outstanding performance
2022
Canada Games
Level: National
Result: 2nd (400m)
2022
Canada Games
Level: National
Result: 1st (4 x 100m relay)
2022
Senior Provincial Championship
Level: Provincial
Result: 1st (400m and 200m)