Olympic champion Sally Pearson has shown throughout her remarkable career that competitiveness and passion are hardwired into her very being. Not since Cathy Freeman in the Sydney Olympics have Australians been so excited by the international success of a sportswoman.

Sally's triumphs on the athletics field — a gruelling test of concentration, technique, speed and endurance — are a tribute to her indomitable will. Believe is the inspiring story of her journey to the top of her field and her path to recognition by her peers as the best in the world.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Sally Pearson was still in primary school when she was first noticed for her athletic ability. At only 14 she won the Australian under-20 100m title. From there she moved from strength to strength, winning gold in the World Youth Championships, gold at the Commonwealth Games and gold at the World Championships, and breaking a swag of records. In 2011, along with Usain Bolt, she was awarded Athlete of the Year by the International Association of Athletics Federations. She is the first Australian to receive the award.

Leading up to the London Olympics Sally won 32 of her 34 races. In the Olympic race Sally clocked 12.35 seconds to break the Olympic record and win gold, beating the best in the world. With new races to win and new records to break, Sally Pearson will not be forgotten any time soon.