Former Olympian shares advice for young women in sport

“Be bold” is just one piece of advice a former Olympian at an Edgbaston care home is sharing following celebrations for Women’s History Month.

To mark the occasion, retired discus thrower Rosemary Chrimes, 92 and living at Care UK’s Metchley Manor on Church Road, has been reflecting on an inspiring sporting career that saw her represent Great Britain at the 1972 Summer Olympics in Munich and win gold for Scotland at the 1970 Commonwealth Games.

Kelso-born Rosemary showed a natural gift for sport from a young age, but it wasn’t until her studies at the University of Edinburgh that she flourished. 

She became a versatile athlete, excelling at running, competing in pentathlons and developing a passion for discus – where her strength, technique and determination really shone.

Rosemary said: “If there was a race, I would always run it!”

After graduating, Rosemary rose through the ranks of British athletics and competed at several major events. A defining moment in Rosemary’s career, and one she still fondly shares with fellow residents and the home team, was competing at the Olympic Games.

Rosemary said: “Testing myself at that level was an incredible privilege. Qualifying for the Olympics in 1972 was a moment I will never forget, and the Commonwealth Games in 1970 was equally special.

“Around that time, my husband, Howard Payne, also competed and won three gold medals at the Commonwealths. It was a remarkable chapter in our lives. The press loved the story of us both competing on the world stage, and it felt very special to share that journey.” 

When she retired, Rosemary went on to manage junior athletes, where she consistently empowered young women to back themselves, work hard and follow their dreams. Today, Rosemary remains passionate about encouraging girls to follow their sporting ambitions.

“Be bold and pursue the sport you genuinely love and feel passionate about,” she said. “Never feel limited in what you can achieve and step confidently into every space.”

Kim-Marie Newton, Home Manager at Metchley Manor, said: “Rosemary is an incredibly fearless woman and her fascinating story continues to inspire everyone here at the home.

“Keeping residents active and allowing them to pursue their goals is extremely important, especially for older people, as it has many benefits for mobility, confidence and overall quality of life.

“Rosemary still has a real passion for all things sport. She loved watching the recent Winter Olympics, which brought back many memories and stories from her days competing.

“We’re incredibly proud to celebrate her achievements during Women’s History Month and hope her words encourage young girls in Edgbaston and beyond to believe in their own potential.”

Metchley Manor incorporates plenty of space for hobby and leisure activities, including its own café, hair and beauty salon and tavern. Its expert team provides full-time residential and dementia care, as well as short-term respite care, while the building offers both assisted living and a reminiscence suite to facilitate individual care requirements.