Beki Smith facts for kids
Personal information | |
---|---|
Birth name | Rebecca Lee |
Nickname(s) | Babsie, Beki |
Nationality | Australian |
Born | 25 November 1986 |
Residence | Canberra, Australia |
Height | 1.60 m (5 ft 3 in) (2012) |
Weight | 49 kg (108 lb) (2012) |
Sport | |
Country | Australia |
Sport | Athletics |
Event(s) | 20 km Road Walk |
Club | Asics West |
Rebecca "Beki" Smith, born on November 25, 1986, is an amazing Australian athlete. She is famous for being a race walker. Beki represented Australia at the 2012 Summer Olympics in the 20-kilometre walk event. She also finished sixth in the 2018 Commonwealth Games held on the Gold Coast.
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Beki's Early Life and Start in Sports
Beki Smith was born Rebecca Lee in New South Wales. Her family and friends often call her "Babsie" or "Beki." She grew up in Mount Druitt, a suburb in western Sydney. She went to Minchinbury Public School and Colyton Public School. Later, she attended Rooty Hill High School and St Marys Senior High School.
Beki started race walking when she was only seven years old. By the time she was ten, she became very serious about the sport. One of her best results in an international competition was finishing tenth. This was in the 20-kilometre race walk at the 2011 IAAF Race Walking Challenge in China. She completed the race in 1 hour, 35 minutes, and 35 seconds.
Studying and Training for Success
Beki went to the Australian College of Physical Education for her college studies. She started studying for a Bachelor of Sports Business in 2007. In 2012, she was still studying for her degree from home. At that time, she was living in Canberra, Australia.
Beki's main event is the 20-kilometre road walk. Before a big race, she has a special routine. She likes to listen to music by Bob Dylan to get ready.
Beki is a member of the Asics West athletics club. She also has a special scholarship from the Australian Institute of Sport. This scholarship helps her train and compete. From 2003 to 2010, her coach was Kevin Stone, followed by Marilyn Pearson. Since 2012, Brent Vallance has been her coach.
Olympic Dream and Special Moments
Beki was chosen to represent Australia at the 2012 Summer Olympics in London. She competed in the 20-kilometre walk event. After her race, something very special happened! Her boyfriend, Daniel Smith, proposed to her right there in front of everyone. It was a memorable moment for Beki and her now-husband.
Beki is also recognized on the Australian Olympic Committee list. This list celebrates Indigenous Australian Olympians.
Beki's Top Race Results
Beki has competed in many important races. Here are some of her notable finishes:
- In 2011, she placed tenth in the 20-kilometre walk at the IAAF Race Walking Challenge in Taicang, China.
- She also finished tenth at the 2011 World University Games in Shenzhen, China.
- At the 2011 Australian Race Walking Championships in Melbourne, Australia, she earned second place in the 20-kilometre walk.
- In 2012, she finished fourth in the 20-kilometre walk at the Oceania & Australian Race Walking Championships in Hobart, Australia.