Athlete in Focus: Nick Hough
Written by Joey Nunez
Photos courtesy of the Australian Delegation for 2015 Gwangju Universiade
Nick Hough’s main event is the 110 meters hurdle. “There is not much time to focus, as there are huge hurdles and high jumps, with a second between to jump.” If anything while running, Hough recalls how he has been trained and guided, and then, sprints as fast as he can.
During last month’s Universiade, the Athletes’ Village provided for this Australian’s needs and wants so that he could train, rest and prepare to perform at his best. Hough loved what he saw of South Korea. “The volunteers here are so loving and welcoming. And the events were fantastic, with multiple sports and [diversity].”
Off the field, Hough considers himself to be an entrepreneur, having launched GradeProof while studying for combined undergraduate Bachelor degrees in Information Technology and Laws at the University of Sydney. Hough’s mobile application allows users to submit writing so the program can ensure no information has been plagiarized. It also improves grammar, provides writing suggestions and more.
The program is now also available in South Korea, and Hough’s business is becoming globally available at a finger’s touch. “For a few years I have been working on this program every night to have computers read the text. I did the coding, and it fits in my schedule with athletics, because I can do the work while traveling.
Back on the track, Hough considers injuries his greatest challenge, but optimism pushes him onward. “I have managed to keep training through the injuries, because there is a bigger picture for me to do the best.” The upcoming 2016 Rio de Janiero Summer Olympics has kept Hough both motivated and driven.
Hough’s greatest lesson has been to not consider world rankings. “I was ranked 15th and I came in 4th, and no one expected that. I have conquered the pressure and I have used it to my benefit.” Hough is referring to the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland, his third-highest accomplishment in competition.
His best accomplishment was winning gold at the 2010 Youth Olympics in Singapore. Hough also currently holds the second-fastest 110 meter hurdles time in Australian history, with a time of 13.42 seconds.
Through it all, Hough wants to inspire people both back home in Australia and here in Gwangju. “Nothing is impossible. I push myself to the limits and keep myself busy. I get out there and get things done. I try something and I give things a go with no regrets.”
Want to help by using Hough’s application? Visit www.gradeproof.com for more information.