Work, Rest, Play with David Oliver

Published by IAAF on January 21, 2014

Fast-talking world 110m hurdles champion David Oliver is next up to answer our work, rest and play questions. We chat to the US athlete who landed a bronze medal in the 60m hurdles at the 2010 World Indoor Championships.

The 2014 World Indoor Championships take place in Sopot, Poland, on 7-9 March.

DAVID AT WORK

What is your favourite training session and why?

DO: Having a favourite training session is like asking "what is your favourite dental procedure?" Of course, I'm joking, but it is very rare that someone would have a favourite given how tough training is. But I like anything that involves going over hurdles.

What is your least favourite training session?

DO: The least favourite would be anything that involves me running more than 200m

What are your three favourite things about being an athlete?

DO: Getting to travel all over the world, the ability to be a positive influence on the next generation, and having a lot of fans that appreciate the hard work that I put in day in and day out.

Who is your favourite training partner and why?

DO: My all-time favourite training partner is Aubrey Herring. We trained together from 2007 until he retired in 2010. He may not have been the best hurdler or the fastest, but he is easily the most knowledgeable guy when it comes to the event and understanding the technical elements. He watches every single meet and to this day he is still the first person I call after every race. He will make an awesome coach one day.

Where is your favourite training venue?

DO: The only training venue I've ever had is ESPN Wide World of Sports in Orlando, Florida. I've had the same coach my whole career (Brooks Johnson) and the same training facility and I don't foresee any of those things changing.