Olympic Gold Medal Natasha Hastings has inspired individuals on and off the track by staying true to herself, as well as being a positive role model for others. She has hurdled some obstacles in her life, but she stayed focused on her goal and achieved them. In 2007, Hastings injured herself, some critics thought that she will never get back to her potential speed, but she proved them wrong. Her response to the dramatics of negative criticism was to stay positive and focused on her goals.
“I was surrounded by an incredible support system from my family, coaches, and trainers. They played a major role in getting me healthy after that injury. I then made it up in my mind that I would give track everything. I went into the season looking for answers, as going any further seemed distant having suffered injuries my first two years of school. So, I really had no idea that the year would be as big as it was, but I just made up my mind that I would have no regrets on the season.”
In 2008, Hastings won the 4 x 400 m with an explosive time of 49.97.” It was an experience that I still have a hard time explaining. I never imagined that I would be an Olympian at such a young age, so when it actually happened it was surreal. I was blessed to have my family there to experience the moment with me. It was certainly the stepping stone in a lot of ways for the rest of my career. I learned a lot about myself and the sport at those Games.”
While she is a force to be reckoned with on the track, Hastings has been an example of being a role model, leader, and someone that fans admire. “That’s the thing that keeps me going. When I see that other people find inspiration and courage from my example, it lets me know I’m doing something right. I always remember myself as a young girl, and the things I wish I was exposed to or even the examples I had to push me forward.”
“My mom had a very big influence in my being an individual. She always gave me freedom in expressing myself through style. I even remember watching her get dressed for work, and see how she carried herself with grace and class. She made it okay for me to be different.”
Hastings is always empowering females and giving them advice about being themselves. “The first thing I always say is be you, and you make your own rules. Don’t allow the world to place you into a category or box that you don’t fit. Society has a way of telling women how they should behave and present themselves, but I believe being a true woman is embracing all things that make you! Everything that makes you unique.”
Hastings has made a list of what goals she want to accomplish this year and in the near future. “My goal would first and foremost be, to make the team this summer. I would then like to go on to London to win an individual medal in the 400 and by the end of the year, start my own business.”
Hastings has had a superb career, but a lot of individuals wanted to know what will she do or venture into when she retires. “I hope to be starting a family by the time I retire. Family is very important to me, and I hope to have a large family to share my experiences and legacy with. I would also like to continue to impact young girls in sport, and work to encourage girls to stay in the sport and build their self-worth.”
