A Loughborough College Commonwealth Games volunteer has shared her experiences of rubbing shoulders with the world’s top athletes and even royalty on the Gold Coast.
Lesley Sleath was at the heart of the action in the Carrara Stadium in Australia for the global competition which this month saw 50 athletes from Loughborough College compete – and bring home 30 medals, including 15 gold.
College learning support assistant Lesley underwent a rigorous selection process, with around 45,000 would-be volunteers making applications, before she secured one of the coveted positions down under.
“The application included a video presentation which was quite nerve-wracking. It required me to showcase the qualities I thought would make me an ideal candidate - but obviously I must have done something right,” said Lesley.
“The first time I volunteered was at the London Olympics in 2012, which my husband and I did together. I also did Glasgow 2014 and the World Championships last summer but there are never any guarantees and this was particularly tough. Only about 10% of volunteers were from the UK. I was thrilled when I heard I’d been successful.
“As I was assigned to athletics I had a few days after I arrived on the Gold Coast to acclimatize and soak up the amazing atmosphere before I started working.
“It’s a massive operation and the volunteers are right at the heart of it.
“I was a Field of Play Marshall, helping to ensure everything ran smoothly for the athletes and was doing everything from the precision work of setting up the blocks and lanes on the night, to basket carrying – where you transport the athletes’ kit and drinks, to access control – making sure only those athletes and coaches with accreditation entered certain areas.
“As I worked at one point Prince Edward was close by and Usain Bolt was also nearby.
“It was fantastic that many of the athletes remembered me from other competitions and it was brilliant to get the opportunity to see the College’s current students and alumni, such as Martyn Rooney and to watch them compete - like Harry Aikines-Aryeetey and Richard Kilty helping England win gold in the 4x100m relay.
“All in all it was a fantastic experience. I think I am going to try for the Winter Olympics 2022 next.”
Pictured: Loughborough College learning support assistant Lesley Sleath with Commonwealth Games mascot Borobi during her time volunteering on the Gold Coast