They are a sports-oriented happy go lucky family, who are enjoying their every moment at the Commonwealth Games. Brother Luke Carson is representing Northern Ireland in gymnastics while his younger sister Bethany Carson is a member of swimming team. Father Michael Carson too has tried his hands in rugby and is a decent golfer, while mother Gillian Margaret Carson is a sports enthusiast and a pillar of support to her children. So, it’s but natural that the Carson family eats, breathes and sleep sport and even when in home, the whole atmosphere is nothing but sporty.
“That’s the best part of our family. We all are into sports and even at home, we just talk and discuss sports. Environment is so positive and we keep on talking about how to improve and win at the highest level,” says 20-year-old Luke, who is stepping up his performance on the international stage.
“I have been into the finals. It’s not easy at this level of competition. I made a slight mistake and that set me back by several places. But I am happy to finish the way I did,” he informs.
Bethany, the chirpier among the two, too quips in. “It’s all in the family. We have had great support from our parents and we do hope to make them proud in times to come,” says the 18-year-old swimmer who has made it to the semi-final of 50m backstroke.
The parents too, chips in into the conversation. “Both are equally hardworking. I am proud of my children. I am confident that they will do well in their events,” says, Gullian, stating that they both were put into gymnastics at early age to keep them fit and healthy.
“Luke was healthy and fit. He was hyperactive as a child and therefore we let him continue as a gymnast. As for Bethany, somebody noticed her potential as a swimmer in her school and we decided to put her into swimming,” says the father, Michael Carson.
So what’s their pick at the Games Village? “I love the food. There are so many verities of it available here. I have tasted many dishes and it’s so delicious. But yes, I am keeping myself away from the spicy dishes as I have to compete,” says the young girl, who is all set to visit Agra on Sunday.
“I want to see the Taj Mahal. I have heard so much about it and will be going there with my team,” informs Bethany.
Luke, too, is enjoying his CWG sojourn. “It’s a fantastic experience. The Village atmosphere is wonderful. It’s so lively. To, it my sister is staying just opposite my room. So it becomes a family affair in the towers as well. And since our parents are here, it’s fun being here,” say the gymnasts.
And the parents, too, have been having a gala time, irrespective of being busy travelling between the two venues – the gymnastics and the swimming centres. “We arrived six days ago but it seems we are here since six weeks. It had been so busy, as we need to travel around the two venues for these two children. We go to the swimming venue in the morning and then to the gymnastics centre in the afternoon and again to swimming stadium in the evening. But then it’s fun riding the metro, the taxis and tuk tuk (autos),” says Michael.
And what’s the ride they enjoy most? “It’s the tuk tuk. It’s very exciting. Sometimes we have to close your eyes and when you open it all excitement. We love the noise of the machine and it’s automatic air conditioners,” says Gillian.
Courtesy: Village News
By Rakesh Jha
