From underdog to defending champion, the difference between the Tokyo Olympics and the upcoming Paris Olympics is stark for freestyle BMX rider, Charlotte Worthington.
After securing gold at Tokyo and making history as the first woman ever to successfully land a 360-degree backflip in competition, cyclist Worthington is in Paris representing Team GB again and knows this time it will feel a very different experience. “Coming in as the defending champ is the opposite of what I experienced going into Tokyo, but I’m eagerly anticipating the opportunity,” she said at the Adidas kit unveiling in Paris in April. “In reality, I’m not defending anything. It’s a fresh start for everyone. There are no guarantees, whether it’s a win or a loss. It all depends on what happens on the day. I’ve been working hard in preparation for that.
“Whether they’re on a BMX, a scooter, or a skateboard, the message remains the same: gender is inconsequential.”
“I look forward to going in and giving my best to defend, but ideally, I just want to showcase my best riding, and hopefully, the results will follow. Pressure is just a feeling. Like Adidas’s campaign, ‘You Got This’ – I always remind myself of that. It genuinely takes me back to being a teenager at the skate park. It really lightens the load and reminds me that we’re simply riding bikes for a living. It’s incredible.”
Now she’s one of the biggest names in the sport, Worthington says she takes “great pride” in being a woman in a male-dominated sport.
“I’ve noticed a definite increase in the number of girls frequenting the skate park, especially since Tokyo,” she says. “Whether they’re on a BMX, a scooter, or a skateboard, the message remains the same: gender is inconsequential.
“Being in the skate park and embracing your true self is what truly matters. You forge numerous friendships and gain invaluable self-awareness that can be applied to your future endeavors. It’s of utmost importance and an incredibly enriching experience.
“This awareness was something I lacked when I first started. I didn’t perceive myself as different from the guys. However, as I’ve matured and taken on the responsibility of representing females, witnessing the impact that female athletes can have on young girls and serve as a source of inspiration, fills me with immense pride. I believe it’s crucially significant.”
“Participating makes you feel like you’re part of something bigger.”
On the whole though, Worthington says she sees the sport as “incredibly inclusive, welcoming both BMX enthusiasts and newcomers alike. People of all skill levels are embraced and celebrated. Whether it’s a beginner mastering their first drop-in or a professional landing a groundbreaking trick, achievements are met with equal enthusiasm. This inclusivity is what makes the BMX and skate community so remarkable. The lifestyle often leans towards an urban aesthetic. Personally, I often wear skinny jeans, but many opt for baggy pants. However, it’s ultimately about expressing yourself however you choose. It’s all about freestyle, with the community serving as the common thread.”
The culture of the sport is also so crucial for Worthington and her love of the world is resides in. “The street-style sports lifestyle holds significant importance for me,” she says. “I’d say 99% of people are drawn to it because they resonate with the lifestyle. Engaging in these sports helps people make friends and learn valuable lessons. Personally, what I love most about it is the sense of community. There’s a unique music taste and fashion sense intertwined with it. Participating makes you feel like you’re part of something bigger. I hope that BMX, skateboarding, and other urban sports remember their roots and maintain their essence. What I appreciate is how it adds a twist to traditional professional sports; it’s not always one-dimensional. We’re demonstrating that there are alternative approaches. It provides ample space for creativity. It’s not simply about power and speed equating to victory; there are various factors at play. That’s what I find truly captivating about BMX freestyle.”
Whether you’re a fan of Worthington already, or new to her from watching her during the Olympics you’ll spot a big character on her Instagram – her dog, Kota.
“Animals and nature, in general, help in coping with stress,” she says. “I went and got a puppy. His name is Kota. He’s a Japanese Shiba Inu, brimming with personality. I got him during a break from competing last year when things genuinely became overwhelming. I needed to take a step back and remind myself why I embarked on this journey in the first place, prioritizing enjoyment over concerns about the Olympics, which is something every athlete needs to do. Having a dog really makes a difference. You can come home, and they’re ecstatic to see you, regardless of the day you’ve had.
“I’m not someone who’s into the celebrity lifestyle. I prefer living in a village, going into the woods, indulging in photography, and playing guitar. I’m quite creative and, truthfully, an introvert, despite enjoying occasions like this. So yes, it’s incredibly beneficial. I believe all athletes, while extraordinary in their field, are still human and sometimes need a reassuring hand on their shoulder, affirming that they’re doing okay. The Shiba Inu is famously known as the meme dog, and they’re quite amusing. That’s how I stumbled upon them. When I started researching, I realised: ‘Oh my goodness, this dog actually matches my personality.’ So I thought, why not give it a try? He keeps me laughing all the time and craves attention endlessly.”
Rhiannon Evans is the interim content director at PS UK. Rhiannon has been a journalist for 17 years, starting at local newspapers before moving to work for Heat magazine and Grazia. As a senior editor at Grazia, she helped launch parenting brand The Juggle, worked across brand partnerships, and launched the “Grazia Life Advice” podcast. An NCE-qualified journalist (yes, with a 120-words-per-minute shorthand), she has written for The Guardian, Vice and Refinery29.
