WE go on camera with the sports presenter, 46, and chat on-air nerves, trailblazing, and why 2019 is the year for women’s sports.
Where: Great Manchester Run finish line.
Gabby, everybody is waving to you as they run past! Do you ever get nervous doing this job?
When I’m doing a really complicated big live show with a massive audience, I do get nervous. It’s about being prepared. If I know I’m prepared and I’ve put in the work, then I’m fine as soon as I open my mouth. Nerves are good, but you don’t want them to cripple you.
How have things changed for women in sports broadcasting since you started in 1996?
There weren’t many women doing it at Sky Sports back then, but the industry has changed dramatically since. There are more women involved in every tier, from production and presentation to direction, so there’s definitely a lot more of a gender balance.
Are people starting to take notice of women’s sport?
It’s now getting the audiences and the big sponsorship campaigns it deserves. This summer, we’ve got a range of women’s sports that will air at peak times on TV, so that will hopefully fuel more investment.
How do we keep that momentum going?
[England footballer] Leah Williamson has spoken about how inspired she was when she went to the Olympic Park on Super Saturday in 2012. Now she’s playing for England in the Women’s World Cup. Some of the female fans who were in the audience that summer are thriving in their own sports careers today. In turn, they’ll create new fans who will also go into sport. It’s about seeing women achieving and knowing that it’s possible.
You’re part of the BBC’s Change The Game campaign, which is highlighting women’s sport this summer. Do you feel any pressure as a role model to other women?
It’s a privilege to be one of the people who get to be pioneers in this area. It’s a responsibility that I enjoy and I think it’s important to keep encouraging more women to get into sport and the industry that we have in the UK, because it’s a great place to work. For a long time now, women who want to get into broadcasting have reached out to me for advice. I always try to reply to each one individually, and if I can’t help I’ll direct them to someone who can.
Are your kids, twins Reuben and Lois, 13, sporty?
My son loves rowing and rugby, while my daughter is into riding horses and athletics. Taking the children to their sports clubs is all me and my husband [former Scotland rugby player Kenny Logan] seem to do besides work, but they’re very passionate about it. It’s also really important to me that they keep active and healthy.
Who’s been your fave sports star to interview?
I spent a day with Andy Murray where I trained with him and interviewed him, then we worked out together in the gym. This way, you’re able to really get to know somebody, more than you would in a short chat. Interviews with Usain Bolt were also a joy!
What’s your favourite sport?
I’m genuinely thrilled that I get to cover the best athletics, football and rugby. Across those three sports I get to watch the greatest athletes at work and I’m delighted to be where I am right now.
BTW
- Gabby’s broadcasting hero is Oprah Winfrey.
- She competed in rhythmic gymnastics in the 1990 Commonwealth Games.
- Her dad Terry Yorath played football for Wales.
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