Ashton Eaton and Brianne Theison Eaton, April 2013, A Day in the Life, Eugene, Oregon, photo by Doug Pensinger/ Getty Images, IAAF
This interview was done at the Millrose Games presser, on February 12, 2015 in New York City. I had finished several interviews and my interview app was clogged, so Ashton helped me clear my phone.
The most highly visible track couple on the circuit, Ashton Eaton is the world record holder and Olympic and World Champion in the decathlon. Brianne Theisen Eaton is the Commonwealth Champion and World Champs medalist in the heptathlon. Having observed Brianne over the past two years and Ashton over the last five, I can tell you that they are a unique couple.
Ashton Eaton, Brianne Theisen Eaton, with coach Harry Marra, April 2013, A Day in the Life, photo by Doug Pensinger/Getty Images/IAAF
Under the watchful eye of Coach Harry Marra, not only a keen observer of the multi events, but, in my mind, one of the best technicians I know, Ashton has honed his skills and Brianne is becoming a world beater. Harry Marra is a coaches’ coach. Harry will tell you, that his job is to keep Brianne and Ashton healthy. That is no mean feat with multi eventers.
Thoughtful answers come from both of their mouths. Ashton admits to worrying when Brianne competes, because he can only watch and not help, but, that is good. Brianne handles being married to a WR holder, and competing for Canada and that pressure, as well as being in different parts of their careers.
They are both very patient with my questions and lack of technical expertise with my iphone app. For that, and their smiles, and thoughtful answers, I wanted to say thanks!
One final note, go to You Tube and watch Ashton’s hurdle race at Millrose. He leaped over the barriers at the end of the hurdles and fell off the track. That he was not hurt was not a miracle, but an example of the prowess of the World’s Greatest Athlete.
