Grit and Goose Feathers

From Olympic podium to parent–teacher meetings, Grit and Goose Feathers is the raw, witty and brutally honest autobiography of badminton star Gail Emms.

A former world champion and Olympic silver medallist, Gail takes readers on a whirlwind journey through the highs and lows of elite sport with input from life coach and trauma specialist Stephanie Burge. Inside you'll discover:

• The stark truth of elite sport – the gruelling training, euphoric victories and the crushing realities of retirement • An unfiltered and chaotic, yet vulnerable account of life after elite sport • The adventures of a former top-level athlete trying to return to 'normal' life – from Gail rediscovering her love of raving to the chaos of juggling work, life and parenting and the awkward hilarity of dating in her 40s (she holds nothing back!) • The struggles of identity beyond sport, the mental battles athletes face and the joy of embracing life's unpredictability – told with humour and refreshing candour

Grit and Goose Feathers isn't just a sports memoir – it's a celebration of resilience, reinvention and learning to thrive, no matter what life 'smashes' your way. Perfect for women and all sports fans.

© 2025 Pitch Publishing (Ebook): 9781836804277

Release date

Ebook: 29 September 2025