Her sentiments were backed by her coach, Charles van Commenee, who takes over as UK Athletics technical director for jumps and combined events on 1 March. I think maintenance is the problem. The more you see these poor places, the more admiration you get for what has been accomplished. When you compare them with other countries in Europe like France or Germany, other respectable athletics nations, their facilities are better. But in a way it makes it easier to work with people who are so motivated.
British athletes have a big heart, they are fighters.
They are well known in international sport as good competitors, though of course it would be easier for athletes to work in gyms that are complete or clean. Despite her harsh words, Lewis acknowledged the gold medal in Sydney was the greatest achievement in her career. The British public are so rapt and enthralled by my performance. There was a moment I felt at one with the nation. Everybody watched - they felt what I felt when I was standing on that rostrum.