Follow us on Patreon for bonus content, extended interviews, and exclusive clips. Patreon: patreon.com/divebeyondsportpod In this episode of Dive Beyond Sports, hosts Freddie Woodward and Yona Knight-Wisdom welcome Gary Smith, a former Olympic trampolinist and CIRQUE performer. Gary shares his journey from recreational trampolining to competing at the 2004 Athens Olympics and later joining Cirque du Soleil. He reflects on his career highlights, including his meticulous preparation for the Olympics, the thrill of performing with CIRQUE, and his current role in sports development. Gary also provides insights into his coaching philosophy, emphasizing the importance of consistency, preparation, and understanding athlete needs. The discussion touches on the transformative power of sport, the significance of high-performance environments, and the value of enjoyment and ambition in achieving success. Show Notes • What does it take to turn a recreational trampoline hobby into an Olympic journey. • How does competing once a year compare to performing ten times a week in Cirque du Soleil. • What mindset shifts are needed when transitioning from elite athlete to full-time performer. • How did Gary discover his Olympic identity long before trampoline became an Olympic sport. • What does true preparation look like when everything comes down to a 20-second routine. • How did Cirque du Soleil shape Gary’s understanding of teamwork, confidence, and stage presence. • What can athletes learn from performers about handling pressure and staying consistent. • How did Gary bring lessons from the stage back into high-performance coaching for Team GB. • What surprising challenges come with returning to coach a sport that has evolved dramatically. • How does Gary define excellence now—across being a father, coach, former Olympian, and performer. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Welcoming the Guest 00:48 Gary's Journey in Trampolining 02:07 The Impact of Sports on Life 02:58 Transition to Performance and Coaching 05:32 Challenges and Mindset in Cirque du Soleil 08:46 Olympic Aspirations and Achievements 14:57 Memorable Moments from the Olympics Guest Picks:

Book #1: The Second Set of Eyes – Cody Royle Link (paperback): https://amzn.to/4oZh5Jt

Book #2: A Golden Age - Steve Redgrave (Autobiography) Link (paperback): https://amzn.to/3Locn9z

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