Do you have a memorable competition from the Harry Jerome?
Ruky: My most memorable competition from Harry Jerome was the 2008 Harry Jerome track meet. It is memorable not only for winning the long jump but for the first time ever in my track and field competition that I realize I might be wearing the Canadian colours in Beijing. That was very special to me. And, it was also memorable because it proved to me that everything I had been doing was the right choice.
It must have been a real thrill competing in the Olympics in Beijing. What was it like?
Ruky: It was definitely a great experience and competing against the world best jumpers. The energy around the Olympic Village was great. It was very nice to see people from around the world for the same purpose. But mostly I’m a part of history.
How is your training and competition schedule different this year from last year?
Ruky: My schedule hasn’t changed much, but there are few things that we are working on to improve my take off from the board. I’m also training a bit more than last year.
Who were your track idols growing up and why?
Ruky: My Track idols while growing up were Marion Jones and Michael Jonson. They were my idol because every time I decided to quit track , they motivate me as I watch them run and to stay strong and believe that I can do it
As a fan, who are your favourite track and field athletes to watch right now?
Ruky: I will say Russian long jumper Tayana Lebedeva and Canadian 100m hurdler Priscilla Lopez-Schliep.
In the major professional sports salaries are well-known, but its not so clear in track and field. Can you give us a sense of how much money you or others make?
Ruky: I cannot give a specific amount because I just started competing professionally since June 2008. As for others, I’m sure they are making about $10.000 – $40.000 depending on the athletes level of performance. I could say that I’m not making up to that amount yet because I’m new to competing as a professional athlete.
How did you celebrate after the Olympics were over?
Ruky: I did not celebrate after the Olympics. Although I did visit my family in Ghana after the games and we had a good time together.
Could you give a general training tip or inspirational quote that we will feature on the site?
Ruky: Great people were not born great. They became great by making a decision to pursue their dream in life and by refusing to give up. The struggle we must all face on the road to our dreams is what makes us great. Ordinary people can become extraordinary if they dedicate their lives to the pursuit of their dreams.
Interview by Allan Klassen
