Sir Steve Redgrave, the celebrated Olympic hero, is currently competing in the latest series of Dancing on Ice on ITV. The 62-year-old former rower, who won five Olympic gold medals across five consecutive games, including from 1984 to 2000, has revealed that he is facing challenges due to his health condition while participating in the popular show.
Despite his remarkable achievements in rowing, Sir Steve Redgrave is now confronting health issues that could affect his performance on the ice. He disclosed that he has Dupuytren’s contracture and diabetes, which he believes may pose challenges during the competition. The former athlete expressed concerns about the sensation in his feet not being as good as before due to his diabetes, potentially affecting his footing on the ice. Additionally, Dupuytren’s contracture, a condition affecting his hands, might make it difficult for him to get up if he falls.
An expert, Anna Schurer, chair of the British Dupuytren’s Society, explained that Dupuytren’s contracture can cause lumps in the hand that form cords, pulling the fingers in. Sir Steve Redgrave also shared his experience with ulcerative colitis, a condition he was diagnosed with in 1992, which impacted his performance prior to the Barcelona Olympics. Despite facing significant health challenges, he managed to overcome them with the support of his wife, Lady Ann Redgrave, who is a qualified doctor.
Sir Steve Redgrave married Ann in 1988, and they have three children. His wife, also a successful rower, competed in Olympics and Commonwealth Games as well as being the GB rowing team’s medical officer since 2009. Their daughter Natalie has followed in their footsteps, excelling in rowing competitions, showcasing a strong family legacy in the sport.
Financially, Redgrave revealed that despite his Olympic success, he returned from the Atlanta Olympics in debt due to the lack of financial rewards in rowing. He highlighted the financial challenges faced by athletes in less commercially popular sports like rowing, where lack of prize money and sponsorship opportunities can lead to financial struggles for athletes.
Apart from his sporting achievements, Sir Steve Redgrave is also a qualified ski instructor, displaying a passion for skiing that extends beyond rowing. As a grandfather, he finds great joy in teaching his family members to ski and cherishes the special moments spent with his granddaughter. He acknowledged that participating in Dancing on Ice presents a new challenge, but he is motivated to give it his best shot.
As Sir Steve Redgrave navigates the ice rink on Dancing on Ice, he hopes to overcome his health challenges and showcase his determination and competitive spirit. Despite the obstacles he faces, he remains positive and determined to make the most of this new experience, drawing inspiration from his family and past triumphs. The audience eagerly awaits to see how the Olympic legend fares in this exciting new chapter on the ice.