A Conversation
by Donny Shankle
Q “So do you think about gold medals while your training?”
A “No , to me thinking about gold medals only gets in the way. Anyone can win a gold medal if they
work hard enough. I’m trying to become a fucking legend.”
Q“Sometimes when I watch you train its so confusing because it seems like the heavier you go the
easier it looks, why is that?”
A“I take the little ones for granted I guess. Gotta stop that.”
Q “How important is technique to you?”
A “Like cleaning your rifle.”
Q “What do you mean?”
A “Well so many people spend their time polishing and lubricating their weapon, that they forget
while you want the damn thing clean, don’t forget how to un-sling your weapon and kill the enemy.
Learning technique is great but once you got it, you then have to rely on whats important to win,
and that’s being stronger than the next person.”
Q“How do you prepare before a big lift?”
A“First I visualize in my head that what I’m about to do has been done before already. I do this over
and over so many times that I begin to convince myself its true. Then I just command my will
power to go and make the damn thing real.”
Q “Do you have any advice for people interested in beginning weightlifting seriously?”
A“Yes, ask yourself why you want to be strong. If you already are strong ask yourself why.
Your answer will determine how far you can go.”
Q“Can you explain what you mean?”
A“No , that’s something which is going to be different for everyone. If you haven’t reached that
point yet then keep training.
Q “Any other advice you can share for a beginner?”
A “Once you figure out why your strong then make a list of reasons why you want to compete,
who your competing for, and what kind of competitor you want to be. Once you do that look
at it from time to time to refresh your memory on why you put yourself through such torment.
And above all never change your list, even if life changes.”
Q “So do you look at your list from time to time?”
A “Everyday.”
April 15th, 2010 at 12:20 am
Very interesting words Donny. You are truly one of the greats in this country right now. Thank you for sharing your thoughts on important issues facing weightlifters and indeed any young aspiring athlete