Young Athlete Profile: Nikola Girke

The Olympics are here, and while you, like many young professionals, are facing rush hour traffic head-on, stressing about that big presentation on Friday, and competing against co-workers for that coveted promotion, there is a whole other genus of YP out there about to face one of the most important milestones of their careers. Instead of the commute to the office downtown, these YPs are traveling across an ocean to get to work. Rather than a PowerPoint presentation in front of peers, these YPs are presenting their work to the world. And no one knows better about competing with colleagues than them. Welcome to Notable’s Young Athlete (YA) profile series, where we will be giving you a snapshot of a notable Canadian athlete competing in this summer’s biggest sporting event, 2012 the London Olympics. Introducing Nikola Girke…

Name: Nikola Girke

Sport: Women’s Windsurfing

Years Active: Girke crewed on a two-person 470 sailboat in the 2004 Athens Olympics.

London Olympics: Sailing Women’s RS-X

What is one quirky fact about you that no one else knows? “I have 3 wigs, that I can actually pull off as real…and they come with alter-egos!” 

What are your alternative hobbies or interests? “Surfing, wave sailing and slalom racing, classic VW cars, gardening, cooking & eating, reading, cross country skiing.”

Which individual does Michael admire, and why? “My Canadian hero is Terry Fox. His determination, diligence, courage and attitude conquered all. He is an inspiration in each and every way. “How many people do something they really believe in?” said Fox at a news conference. “I just wish people would realize that anything’s possible if you try. Dreams are made if people try.” My personal motto has become: Dare to Dream, Dare to Achieve, Dare to Succeed, and I admire anyone that is bold enough to follow their dreams.”