Champions Of Change: Olivia McTaggart
Fresh off the back of her first Diamond League win, HIA #237 Olivia McTaggart is a former gymnast turned pole vaulter who is breaking new ground.
Having repped New Zealand on the Olympic stage, at the Commonwealth Games, and across multiple World Championships, she’s one to watch — both on and off the runway. Since 2022, Olivia’s served as an athlete educator with Drug Free Sport NZ, where she delivers monthly sessions on fair play, anti‑doping awareness, and athlete welfare.
She’s proving that sport can be a platform for change — and we’re excited to have her voice and vision on Team HIA.
Hey Liv.
Hey Marcus.
What advice would you give your younger self when you started your career?
As much as I prefer sprinting… “it’s a marathon, not a sprint” keep dreaming big, but know that there’s so much to learn from the process and people around you. You are not your sport. It’s just what you do.
What’s something you wish more people understood about the life of a pro athlete?
The high levels of instability, both financially and performance wise, everything rides on how well you do. Everyday you’re putting in work and little 1% ers, without 100% guarantee. Further emphasising the need for support and enjoying the process.
How do you mentally reset after a tough loss?
I’m sometimes even more motivated after a loss because I know I have room for improvement and can find where I went wrong and what to work on. I’m usually itching to go again, although for a major championship it can take some time and a mental shift. Feel the loss, connect with my people, plan for how to get better!
The best piece of advice you've ever received?
Learn athlete autonomy. Know why you do what you do and have ownership in what you’re doing as it only grows that self belief and makes you a better more rounded person as well as athlete.
What is the most unexpected lesson your sport has taught you about life?
Gratitude. Sport brings out your character and teaches you so many life lessons. But being grateful that I get to do what I love, improve myself everyday and feel the highs and lows, whilst competing for my country, is a real privilege.
Has there been a fan interaction or message that’s left a lasting impact on you?
After the Paris Olympics I had a few people come up to me in public, separately with the main messsage of “it was amazing to see how happy you were out there” it reminded me that it’s not always about achievements, but how you make people feel. That’s how sport brings people together.
How has competing in different countries and cultures impacted you as a person?
A much wider world view and perspective. Not only the countries but the people I’ve met, all being united by one common goal.
What personal cause or issue are you most passionate about outside of your sport, and why?
Helping under privileged children. I was fortunate to have a great childhood and that’s made me who I am today. If I can improve a child’s life even by the smallest bit, I hope it can make a lasting impact into who they are and have a more positive view on the world and people in it.
Appreciate you sharing your message with the HIA community, Olivia.
To follow Olivia @livi_mctaggart_pv
