Rio Olympics 2016: Team GB’s told to steer clear of 24-hour McDonald’s at the Games
TEAM GB’S rugby sevens stars have been warned not to be silly burgers and side-step Rio’s 24-hour McDonald’s.
Former Olympic, European and Commonwealth heptathlon champion Denise Lewis spoke about the perils of the athletes’ village in Brazil — which is home to a round-the-clock fast-food joint.
Their XVs counterparts were caught scoffing ice creams from the Golden Arches in Sydney ahead of their historic whitewash of Australia last month.
But Lewis, 43, urged the 12-man squad to avoid the temptations of the fast-food joint.
England’s Dan Bibby said: “We’ve been told to steer clear of the McDonald’s!”
Flying winger Marcus Watson, older brother of Red Rose and Bath ace Anthony, added: “She said not to eat all the food as there is a 24-hour McDonald’s!"
“We know what to do and what not to do in the village.”
As well as nutritional tips from Lewis, Simon Amor’s side also had a visit from Stuart Pearce — the former England left-back and Team GB football boss for the London 2012 Games.
Newcastle Falcons winger Watson said: “It’s been inspirational. It was good having those two in to hear about their experiences and learning from them.”
Watson’s parents are racking up the air miles after booking their trip to Rio, having already flown Down Under to see middle sibling Anthony face the Aussies.
Asked about the pressure of matching his brother’s glory, Watson said: “It’s more about making their summer one to remember. For myself, it’s about enjoying it.
“I enjoyed watching Anthony in Australia and he enjoyed playing.
“Hopefully Rio is about making some more memories.”
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Bringing together players from England, Scotland and Wales for the first time has not been easy.
With the camp more used to running over each other than teaming up, they needed a bonding session in Moscow to break down the barriers.
Bibby, 25, said a night out in the Russian capital after finishing third at the Grand Prix Series last month was crucial.
He added: “Moscow was a big one for us. We played our first tournament and a lot of us had just met for the first time having played against each other for four years.
“We had some down time and went for a few beers — in terms of the social side, it definitely helped. It feels like we’ve been together for years and it’s like we’re our own team now.”
The women are led by England World Cup-winner Emily Scarratt, who said: “To wear the GB shirt and compete in the Olympics is a childhood dream.
“We’re looking forward to being among the first athletes to play rugby sevens on the world’s biggest sporting stage.
“I’m immensely proud to be representing Great Britain and introducing women’s rugby to new audiences.”
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