HELEN GLOVER has never wanted to be placed upon a pedestal.
But the GB rowing star knows she will keep having conversations about motherhood and elite performance until her trailblazing path becomes the norm.
The 37-year-old is aiming for a fourth Olympics this summer as part of the women's fours team.
And the former obsessive over minor details says she has "embraced imperfection to set faster times in training than ever before.
Yesterday Glover was part of a quartet alongside Esme Booth, Samantha Redgrave and Rebecca Shorten - that eased past Romania to win European championship gold in Hungary.
But by proving over and over that athletes can return to the top of their sports after giving birth, the mum of three understands why her story is such a source of inspiration.
Glover said at the launch of NatWest's Team Talk campaign: "When I'm out there rowing on the water, you can spotlight me from any time in the past decade.
"I feel, physically and emotionally, fundamentally the same person as I always have been when I'm out there.
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
DINE & DASH
No worry Wolves enjoy try feast... as 'no effort Giants pay bill
LOOK BAKU IN ANGER. LANDO
Norris sees world title bid dented as the wheels come off in qualifying nightmare | \"My car's quick but don't expect magic from 16th on this street circuit...
Mum saved my life and now against the odds I've had my own miracle baby
EVERY year, grateful Jessica Chriss celebrates two birthdays.
My bond with mum of Brianna's killer
Esther Ghey thanks murderer Scarlett's mother for support as festival opens
FURY AT WHITE WIDOW MOVIE EL
survivor Mall massacre slams 'biased' project
Talk to your children about their feelings
Tom & Giovanna back mental health campaign
I wanted revenge now I'm fighting to end the violence
WHEN Tim Edwards’ daughter Elle was killed in the crossfire of a senseless gang war, understandably he wanted retribution.
OOPS..WE BOOKED INTO A SEX HOTEL
Kelly Brook on her night in naughty motel with hubby
It's time for Harry to stop living in the past
PRINCE Harry's 40th birthday is a milestone in more ways than one.
A HUG FOR SVEN
Statue of tate Enqtand. boss in his home town to be heated so It's warm to touch