Inspirational Kelly Cartwright Talks Fitness, Fashion and Beauty

We chat to amazing Kelly Cartwright,  the new face of fashion brand Cotton On Body.

There’s that old saying: ‘What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger.’ For Kelly Cartwright, that’s certainly the case. Back in 2004, 15-year-old Kelly was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer in her right knee that forced to make one of the toughest decisions of her life; to have her right leg amputated.

The life-changing surgery motivated her to chase a running career where her talent, determination and positive attitude has seen her go on to win medals including gold at the 2012 London Paralympics.

Bondi Beauty caught up with the Aussie beauty to discuss everything from fashion, food, travel and what’s next for the girl who has already achieved so much.

 Q: Tell us how you scored the Cotton On Body ACTIVE campaign?

A: I was lucky the team at Cotton On Body ACTIVE had a vision of the person they thought would suit the campaign. Fortunately for me when they searched for that person my name came up.

So I guess you could say I was discovered on the internet and because of my sport and proud links to Geelong, I wasn’t too hard to find. (Just like Cotton On Body, Kelly also originates from Geelong, Victoria)

Q: What does it mean to you to be the face of Cotton On Body ACTIVE?

A: To be named the face of Cotton on Body ACTIVE is one of my highlights, it really is an honour. Obviously being active is a huge part of my life and this just fits so well. I love the range and the entire idea of the campaign.

Q: What’s your absolute favourite piece from the collection?

A: I would have to say the K.I.R (Keep it Real) bras. They are so comfortable and the colours are amazing. I wear sport bras 90% of the time and it’s great having a comfy fitting bra that allows me to focus on the exercise I am doing.

Though, it’s difficult to highlight just one item as I also spend a lot of time in the singlet’s and tights. I just about live in them.

Q: What item, fashion or beauty, can you not live without?

A: Lipstick!  I never used to wear lipstick but now I can’t count how many I own and if I’m not wearing it, I feel naked!

Q: You used to play netball, a team sport, and now you’re a solo professional runner, why did you make that transition from team to solo sport?

A: I did love netball but unfortunately I couldn’t go back to it after the amputation and never really played another team sport growing up. I have always loved running, mostly long distance, so after the amputation the 100m was something I wanted to focus on.

Q: You‘re already a World Champion and Paralympic Champion, what’s next for you?

A: This year I have taken time to do things for myself and to take a step back from the intense training that is required in the lead up to major competitions. The break away from the track has provided me with more time to do the other things I enjoy like motivational speaking and exploring new opportunities with my great sponsors.

I’m really enjoying reflecting on and sharing what I’ve achieved the past few years. I don’t exactly know what’s next but that’s the exciting thing. I just know I’m not finished yet!

: This year I have taken time to do things for myself and to take a step back from the intense training that is required in the lead up to major competitions

Q: What has been your proudest moment?

A: There have been a few proud moments. The first time I ran on my prosthetic leg on my own, that was pretty exciting, but I would have to say standing on the dais in London listening to our national anthem with that gold medal around my neck. That was my dream from the moment I put that running leg on.

The first time I ran on my prosthetic leg on my own, that was pretty exciting

Q: Who is your role model?

A: Growing up I always looked up to my parents and am the person today because of them, but now with the life I live I would have to say my manager, Don Elgin. I feel like I’m following in his footsteps and I’m not complaining.

He is not only my mentor, he is somebody I trust with almost every aspect of my life.

Q: What’s your favourite thing to do when you’re not training?

A: I would have to say shopping. I love to shop, for anything really – mainly clothes and skin care. I also love to cook and eat.

Q: I’ve read that you love to cook, tell us what your favourite post-workout meal is?

A: I do love to cook. I would have to say my guilty post-workout meal would have to be a nice bowl of pasta – either Bolognese or chicken, but most days I’m a bit tired after training and it’s late, so a nice hearty stir-fry is something that always satisfies me.

Q: What do you do to relax?

A: Relaxing is something I struggle to do. I’m always on the go and I don’t like sitting still, but when I find myself sitting down I love to read. It has to be a great book though and one I can’t put down.

Relaxing is something I struggle to do. I’m always on the go and I don’t like sitting still

Q: Favourite travel destination and why?

A: I absolutely loved Africa and can’t wait to someday get back there. I’m fortunate I’m a Qantas Ambassador and travel is a big part of my life but seeing as I have been to Germany three times in the last year and a half, I’d say I have a soft spot for it. I love the food, places, buildings, scenery and people.

My best friend also lives there and we just have so much fun. Oktoberfest this year was definitely a massive highlight.

Q: Who are you listening to on your iPod?

A: To be honest, I have such a mix on my iPod – from what’s on the radio at the moment to mainly the 90’s. I’m banned from putting my iPod on at the gym as nobody appreciates my taste and what gets me going.

Q: Who are you following on instagram?

A: I don’t really follow people because they are “famous,” I follow the people I have met and the people who I have a connection with. Other than my close friends I love following foodies for their great healthy recipes.

1 Comment
  1. This is amazing, stunning shots and awesome work on Cotton On using real, talented people that we can aspire to unlike the amount of useless “celebs” and wannabes who do nothing but ooze self obsession!!!! love the interview content.xxx

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