Meet Sidcup pole vaulter Charlie Jinks

PUBLISHED: 13:16 22 March 2014 | UPDATED: 13:16 22 March 2014

Sarah Sturt

KEN APR 14 BYT

Rikard Osterlund

Tell us about yourself

My name is Charlie Jinks. I am 17 years old and live in Sidcup with my Mum, Dad and younger brother Sam. I started competing in athletics when I was 11 and took up 
pole vaulting three years later. I’m a member of Ashford Athletics Club and 
also part of a brilliant training group called Third Law Pole Vault. I have always been interested in sport, my Dad played football to a high level and my Grandad played 
for England and Millwall years ago.

The reason I wanted to try out pole vaulting initially was the fact that it’s totally different. I used to do middle distance running but for me, pole 
vaulting provides me with the 
ultimate buzz and adrenaline rush.

What are you doing now?

Other than training I am also in 
the process of completing a business 
and administration apprenticeship. 
I am training to become an IT 
recruitment consultant.

Your top tips for success?

1. Work hard: I believe you get out of 
life what you put in.

2. Give yourself the best chance; if you want to be healthy and active you must fuel your body in that way. Everyone likes to eat junk food but I don’t like eating too much of it as it’s not good for my body.

A great product I use is Beet IT, a natural energy shot of beetroot juice that is packed with goodness. I always take one of these shots before training and competitions 
as it provides me with a healthy and natural energy source.

3. Stay motivated: whether you’re having

a good session or bad session, stay 
focused and motivated in doing what you’re passionate about. Don’t give up 
and keep going, your results will come.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

In five years I would like to compete internationally for Team GB. I will be 22, 
so I will be much for closer to being 
a fully developed athlete. I take each 
day as it comes and keep focused on 
what I want in the future.

What are your long-term ambitions?

I would love to compete at the Commonwealth Games, the World Championships and of course the 
Olympic Games.

What’s best about living in Kent?

The best things about living in Kent 
are definitely what the county can offer. Kent has a little bit of everything: beautiful scenery, a wide variety of beaches and seaside resorts – and great sport facilities.

What are your hobbies and interests?

Other than pole vaulting, I also regularly

go fishing with my Dad. We are both members of Edenbridge Angling 
Society. I have been fishing since I was eight and find it’s a great way to relax 
and also to spend time with my Dad.

The last book you read?

The last book I read was Usain Bolt’s autobiography, a great book that I’d highly recommend. Bolt explains a lot of the ups and downs in his personal life that helped him become the athlete he is today. n