Chester born Amy Truesdale is one of the pioneers of Para Taekwondo. She won a Gold Medal at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, ParalympicsGB’s first-ever gold in taekwondo and now holds the Paralympic, world and European titles concurrently 

Can you describe what went through your mind in those final moments of the match in Paris?

The thoughts running through my mind during the final moments of my match was “I have fought so well today, I’m winning on points I can’t lose the fight this way! ”

You celebrated your victory in Paris with a cartwheel and splits. Do you have a background in dance? When I was a child I used to do ballet and tap dancing. I now Do heels dancing once a week.

How did it feel to rally back and win bronze at the Tokyo 2020 Games after facing the eventual champion in the semi-final? I knew the importance of getting a bronze medal as it was still a massive achievement to get a Paralympic medal so this was my mindset going into the match.

Is there a particular win or moment that stands out to you the most? I think becoming World champion for the second time in 2017 was a significant event as this medal secured funding for a world-class training program which is now created opportunities for the athletes

How did it feel to represent para taekwondo in its debut at the Tokyo 2020 Games? It was a very proud moment as I have been competing as a Paralympic athletes since 2009. it showed that all my years of hard work and dedication paid off as it was now of core Sports in the Paralympic games.

What role have your family / friends played in your journey, and how did your initial motivation for self-defence evolve? My parents initially encouraged me into the martial arts as they felt it would be a valuable life skill to learn taekwondo. I always watched martial art movies as a kid, especially Bruce Lee so when I went to my first taekwondo class, I fell in love with it straight away!

How has taekwondo influenced you personally, outside of competition? I feel I’ve gained lots of transferable skills I am an organised person and determined to complete every day tasks and I always set myself targets and challenges.

What has been the most rewarding part of being an advocate for disability sports? Inspiring the next generation to take part in physical activity and it is given them self belief

What challenges do you think are still facing athletes with disabilities today, and what do you believe needs to change? I think sometimes it is difficult for them to access a pathway into certain sports. The pathway needs to be clearer so the people know taking part in sport or taekwondo is an option for them. 10. What’s been your favorite place to visit, and why? I think South Korea is always one of my favourite places to visit as it feels special as this is where taekwondo originated from

What’s one piece of advice you would give to young people interested in sports or martial arts? My advice would be that there is lots of role models out there who are more than happy to give you support and guidance so ask questions don’t be afraid. you will gain so many different skills from practising a martial art ,whether it’s making new friends ,gaining more confidence, keeping fit and learning valuable life skills though could help you in the future.

What’s a typical training day like for you, especially when preparing for major competitions? A typical training day for me would be training twice a day Monday to Friday. The morning sessions will consist of kicking and the afternoon sessions will be strength and conditioning based.

How do you handle the pressure that comes with elite level sport? I Focus on the things that are within my control

Do you have any pre-match routines or rituals? Before a big competition, I will have a chilled evening, usually a bath a face mask and go over mg game plan

Any chance we’ll see you on Strictly Come Dancing? it would be my dream to go on strictly come dancing I think it’s an amazing show and I would be keen to learn a new skill!

What do you see as the next step for you in taekwondo or beyond? Once I retire from competitive sport, I will become a taekwondo coach passing on my expertise next generation.

You recently met the King, how was that ?

I was lucky enough to meet him after the Paralympic games in Tokyo so it was good to meet him again

Is there anything you’d tell your younger self, looking back on your journey from Chester to becoming a World Champion?

Don’t compare yourself to other people. Try your best. Give yourself credit where its due Enjoy it. Its all going to work out in the end.

Thanks to Amy for her time. Amy will be turning the Hoole lights on , Saturday 16th November