The genes that helped Donovan Bailey become the fastest human on the planet run in his blood. Of course, a few favourable genes aren’t the only thing the 1996 Olympic champion and 100m Canadian record holder can accredit his success to; by learning his traits and how his body functioned, he was able to work harder and smarter. Bailey perfected his training, enhancing his hard work with other elements specific to his body. Now, he has teamed up with Ancestry, the world leader for family and consumer genomics, in the launch of a new, first-of-its-kind, interactive DNA experience, allowing fans to compare their genes with those of world-class athletes.
Through the partnership, Bailey aims to encourage others to take advantage of the incredible resource that Ancestry offers to find out more about themselves to aid their performances. “Through Ancestry, you can find out about your mannerisms and what food agrees with you,” he says. “You’ll be able to top up your preparation, whether it’s mental, physical or psychological, with more specific things to amplify those effects.”
Since he was a kid, the Canadian sprinter knew he had Olympic-level talent. “I was a great athlete from a young age, and could target my focus to achieve something easily,” Bailey says. “I had the ability to adjust to any sport, and took to new things quickly. I found myself leading amongst peers from very young.” He also says he is a naturally curious person and has always asked a lot of questions, guiding him to learn where he gets his confidence and his ability to lead and take risks.
Bailey says that getting his results from his AncestryDNA test confirmed and reaffirmed things people said and things he suspected about himself. He could only imagine having that information in his prime as an elite sprinter.
With the inclusion of 30 new performance traits to explain how genes influence athletic ability, Ancestry hopes to inspire athletes to take advantage of their unique traits and become champions. Joining their team alongside Bailey is Phylicia George, dual-season Olympian in 100m hurdles and bobsleigh. Fans can compare their results to those of 15 world-class athletes, including Bailey and George, to discover if they are naturally competitive, risk-takers, physically flexible or speedy–or if they need to work a little harder than others to nurture those skills.
AncestryDNA tests also helped Bailey discover more about his background. “I found out my people are from Africa, Asia, Wales and Scotland,” he says. “I’m even one per cent Jewish.” These meaningful insights into what sets them apart from others will continue to help him and other athletes understand how they function as humans.
Learning your genetic traits can tell you a lot about how your body operates–and understanding your body is a crucial part of being an elite athlete. Some skills are genetic, and some skills need to be developed through training–being able to distinguish the two can eliminate the frustration that accompanies attempting to control things that are out of your control.
You never know–you might have similar genes to Bailey. Who’s to say you couldn’t be an Olympic champion, too?
