Flessel believes that the key to success lies within her own mind. I am afraid of underperforming, knowing that I am the biggest danger to myself. Flessel, an adopted Parisian who trains in the French town of Chantilly that is the home of French horseracing, has prepared well for the Games in New Caledonia and has benefited from the generosity of her employer who has allowed her time off for four months to prepare for Sydney. At Atlanta my mother was there. This time it will be my father and my sister.
Family is an indestructible link.
She may stay clear of the draw but Flessel will be an enthusiastic participant in the Opening Ceremony. It's the most important occasion in the career of a top-class athlete.