P&g Launches ‘raising An Olympian’ Series

P&G has launched a series of eight short, documentary-style films telling the story of raising a world class athlete through the eyes of some of their mothers. 

The first film in the series to launch stars Sir Chris Hoy’s mother, Carol, and gives an exclusive insight into the highs and lows of raising a champion, from Chris’ childhood to recent successes on the world stage.

Comedienne Dawn French was on hand to launch the campaign, and also features in an introductory film to launch the series informing the public why ‘Being a Mum is the hardest job in the world. But it’s also the best.’

P&G’s ‘Best Job’ advertisement can also be viewed at Sport Industry TV.

The film series tells the stories of the following mums: 

Carol Hoy – mum of Sir Chris Hoy, cycling – reflects on her surprise that Chris chose a career in cycling but that despite her hesitation, she believed in letting him live his own life and follow his dreams.

Kim Tancock  – mum of Liam Tancock, swimming – describes the journey the family have taken with Liam from playing on the beach all the way to the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games and how her ultimate aim as a mum is to make sure her children have fun and enjoy life.

Alison Rushgrove  – mum of Paralympian Ben Rushgrove, athletics – discusses the struggles Ben and the family have gone through, not just with his Cerebral Palsy, but also through his education; and the pride she feels having watched him overcome these.

Alison Powell – mum of Jessica Ennis, athletics – talks about how Jess has been a huge source of inspiration to  Alison herself and how her job has been to nurture Jess’ determination to help her realise her ambitions.

Rose Kwakye – mum of Jeanette Kwakye, athletics – talks about how mother and daughter relationship has grown to be pure friendship and the support she gave Jeanette through her injury struggles by giving up her job for three months and helping her recover.

Pauline Pendleton – mum of Victoria Pendleton, cycling – reflects on the sacrifices she feels Victoria has made to get to the top and how she looks forward to Victoria having a ‘normal’ life after cycling and being able to spend more time together.

Pat Payne – mum of Keri-anne Payne, swimming – on her pride at how her daughter has overcome setbacks, and how ultimately out of everything Keri-anne has achieved, she is most proud of the kind girl that she is. 

Pat Radcliffe – mum of Paula Radcliffe athletics – on how the family motto is ‘you get out of life what you put in’ and how Paula’s career has reflected that too.