Sponsors of the C4 London 2012 Paralympic Games site
29th August - 9th September
Elizabeth Johnson Q & A
"During heavy training it's not abnormal for a swimmer to be in their PJs by 8pm"
09 Apr 2011 10:46 am
What has been your most memorable moment so far?
"Getting the gold medal in Beijing in the 100m breaststroke. It had always been my dream to win gold at Beijing, and after the recent death of my mum and suffering from shoulder injuries it made it all the more special."
How would your fellow athletes describe you?
"Determined, dedicated, but also entertaining! I try to be a fun person to be around. I'm quite full of banter. I can take it, but I can give it back as well. When you're out there in the pool, your head is down and you're on your own so it's important the rest of the time to lighten the mood to deflect from the pain."
What is the coolest perk you've ever got through your gold medal?
"My housemate thinks it's pretty cool when I get invited to places and she's my plus one. One of the highlights was going to watch Strictly Come Dancing being filmed. I love that show!"
So you are living the high life?
"Not really! During heavy training it's not abnormal for a swimmer to be on the sofa in their PJs under a duvet by 8pm. We spend a lot of time at each others' houses watching box sets, '24' or 'Grey's Anatomy' or 'Glee' or something. Other than that, when you're a swimmer, eating is super important, so when we go out together we'll usually go for a meal. It kills two birds with one stone because you get to catch up with people and you get to eat."
Any nicknames?
"Showbiz or Johno. Showbiz rhymes with Liz and is linked in to my media work. I think you can probably work Johno out yourself."
Who is your toughest opponent?
"My team-mate Charlotte Henshaw. We are always fighting it out in the water. We always walk away with the best two times in the squad, and one of us has to lose, but it makes it that bit more valuable when you win because you know the quality of the swimmer you've beaten."
What makes the Paralympics special?
"It only happens once every four years and every Games is unique so you don't get a second chance. It is a once in a lifetime opportunity and the gold medal I won in Beijing is the highlight of my career."
How did you get into swimming?
"I did a half-term crash course when I was four and carried on. I enjoy it now because it provides me with the opportunity to fully exploit my competitive nature against people with a similar level of impairment."
Do you have any superstitions?
"Not any more."
Away from the pool what do you enjoy doing?
"I love to travel. San Diego is a really cool city and offers something for everyone."
Inspire a generation?
"Use your disappointments to fuel your ambitions."
What do you want to do when the sporting career is over?
"Take the opportunities that come my way and either work in business as an accountant or in the media."
