Athlete Co-Researcher Profiles

Azra Melis Atici

Country of Residence: Turkey
Sport: Waterpolo
Languages Spoken: Turkish, English, Spanish
Motivation for being an athlete co-researcher in TALE:
As a medical student and professional athlete, joining TALE as a co-researcher allows me to bridge the gap between medical science and athletic performance. This role offers a unique opportunity to actively shape research that directly impacts athletes’ health, training and overall well-being.
Availability to support any future projects as an athlete co-researcher: Yes
Contact details: azramelis02@gmail.com

Elena García Grimau

Country of Residence: Spain
Sport: Athletics
Languages Spoken: Spanish, English, French
Motivation for being an athlete co-researcher in TALE:
I have witnessed the negative consequences that doping brings, not only to the clean athlete but also to the one who cheats and their entire entourage. The athlete who dopes also deserves a second chance and to receive support and guidance. Contributing to the well-being of athletes and fostering a more honest and happier sport for everyone is truly rewarding.
Availability to support any future projects as an athlete co-researcher: Yes
Contact details: elenagrimau@gmail.com

Nikki Hamblin

Country of Residence: Hong Kong / New Zealand
Sport: Athletics
Languages Spoken: English
Motivation for being an athlete co-researcher in TALE:
I joined the TALE project as an athlete co-researcher as I believe it is important to give all athletes the opportunity to share their experiences, as athlete voices are central to improving the anti-doping system.
Availability to support any future projects as an athlete co-researcher: Yes
Contact details: nikki.hamblin@hotmail.com

Samuel Ingram

Country of Residence: Scotland
Sport: Judo
Languages Spoken: English
Motivation for being an athlete co-researcher in TALE:
To gain a deeper understanding of anti-doping and the factors leading to sanctions, it is crucial to engage with individuals who have committed anti-doping violations. Therefore, I am pleased to support TALE in exploring the reasons and circumstances that lead individuals to breach WADA’s code.
Availability to support any future projects as an athlete co-researcher: Yes
Contact details: samuelingram@judoscotland.com

Yuliia Lazurko

Country of Residence: Ukraine
Sport: Muay Thai, Kickboxing
Languages Spoken: Ukrainian, German, English
Motivation for being an athlete co-researcher in TALE:
As an athlete co-researcher in TALE, I am motivated by the opportunity to contribute my firsthand experiences to research that enhances athlete development, well-being, and performance. By collaborating with researchers, I can help bridge the gap between theory and practice, ensuring that findings are relevant and impactful for athletes like myself.
Availability to support any future projects as an athlete co-researcher: Yes
Contact details: yuliia.lazurko@gmail.com

Ahmad Nasrabadi

Country of Residence: Iran
Sport: Cycling
Languages Spoken: Farsi, English
Motivation for being an athlete co-researcher in TALE:
As a professional cyclist, I have witnessed numerous athletes facing suspensions due to the use of prohibited substances. I have personally observed the emotional distress, pain, and psychological challenges they endure—issues that often go unnoticed, with little attention given to their lives post-suspension. This experience motivated me to engage in this project, aiming to support these athletes in navigating the difficulties they encounter.
Availability to support any future projects as an athlete co-researcher: Yes
Contact details: nasrabadi.ahmad@yahoo.com

Orsolya Tompa, PhD

Country of Residence: Hungary
Sport: Swimming
Languages Spoken: Hungarian (native), English (C1), French (A2)
Motivation for being an athlete co-researcher in TALE:
Because of my past, as a professional swimmer, to understand the situation of athletes being sanctioned, so to understand the world I was a part of. Because of my present, as a researcher, to be part of a very relevant and valuable project and to contribute to educational programmes on anti-doping and policy recommendations on sport policy.
Availability to support any future projects as an athlete co-researcher: Yes
Contact details: orsolya.tompa@olympian.org

Dr. Daniel Westmattelmann

Country of Residence: Germany
Sport: Cycling
Languages Spoken: German, English
Motivation for being an athlete co-researcher in TALE:
Ensuring athletes' voices are heard in anti-doping efforts, providing the education and support needed for fair play and successful reintegration.
Availability to support any future projects as an athlete co-researcher: Yes
Contact details: d.west@uni-muenster.de

Julius Yego

Country of Residence: Kenia
Sport: Javelin Throw
Languages Spoken: English, Swahili
Motivation for being an athlete co-researcher in TALE:
As an industrious, talented and passionate for the sport I would love to know what really pushes some athletes into performance enhancing substances yet talent and hard work pays off.
Availability to support any future projects as an athlete co-researcher: Yes
Contact details: jkiplagat.yego@gmail.com