Former Olympian Annabel Eyres Reflects on Paris Games Opportunity

Annabel Eyres, a former athlete who represented Great Britain in rowing at the 1992 Olympics in Barcelona, expressed her excitement about the upcoming Paris Olympics, calling it "a huge honour" and a "second chance." This year marks the third time Paris has hosted the Olympic Games, with previous events held in 1900 and 1924. Notably, the last Paris Games included art competitions, showcasing events such as painting, sculpture, and literature. Eyres, who began her rowing journey while studying art at Pembroke College, Oxford, competed in the Women's Boat Race in 1987 and 1988. She shared that her initial foray into the art world involved creating and selling t-shirts at rowing events, which provided financial support for her athletic career during a time when sponsorship and lottery funding were virtually non-existent for athletes. Reflecting on her self-funded journey, Eyres stated, "I'm proud to say that we were totally self-funded," highlighting the dedication and resilience required to pursue her passion for both art and sport. As she prepares for the Paris Olympics, she feels a deep connection to the event, which she admits she never anticipated. Eyres' story serves as an inspiring reminder of the intersection between art and athletics, as well as the personal sacrifices made by athletes in pursuit of their dreams. As the Paris Games approach, her involvement underscores the enduring spirit of the Olympic movement.