In the hot seat: Sam Weale

SAM Weale grew up near Yeovil but now lives in Bath, where he trains at the Pentathlon GB performance centre at the University of Bath.

He will compete in his first Olympic Games next month when Beijing 2008 opens on August 8.

He joins team-mates Nick Woodbridge, Katy Livingston and Heather Fell in the British pentathletes team – Sam and Nick will be the first British male modern pentathletes to have competed at an Olympic Games since Atlanta 1996.

Sam's identical twin, Chris, is a goalkeeper for Bristol City.

Modern pentathlon involves five different sporting disciplines, all in one day – air-pistol shooting, fencing, a 200m freestyle swim, show-jumping and a 3km run.

What makes the West Country “home” to you?

I was born here and my family all live in the West Country. I love the quiet country lanes, the quaint villages, the beautiful countryside, and the fact you're never too far from the sea.

How do you relax?

Letting the internet take me on a voyage of discovery, as well as golf, surfing and yoga.

When and where are you happiest?

Sitting on my surfboard waiting for that elusive perfect wave.

What's your earliest memory?

Being locked in my sister's bedroom and not being able to reach the door handle to open it.

What makes you laugh?

Peep Show.

What do you dream of?

Standing on top of the Olympic podium singing along to the national anthem with a gold medal around my neck.

What is your greatest fear?

Being stuck in a cave full of rats.

Who do you admire, living or dead, and why?

Haile Gebrselassie, for his domination in distance running, and he's a true gentleman, both on and off the track.

What is your worst habit?

Procrastinating.

What possession could you not live without?

My laptop.

What is your greatest frustration?

Wasted talent.

What is your favourite book?

Life of Pi by Yann Martel.

What is your favourite word?

Quintessential.

What would you chose to eat and drink at your last meal?

A cream tea, with homemade scones just out the oven, clotted cream and fresh strawberries.

What or who is the love of your life?

Haven't met her yet – one day!

Who would you invite to your dream dinner party?

Albert Einstein, Elvis, Jonathon Ross, Superman, Marilyn Monroe, Beethoven, David Beckham, Jessica Alba and Mohammad Ali.

What law would you introduce if you were in charge?

There are too many already, I would get rid of a few.

What single thing would improve your life?

Owning my own home.

What is your greatest achievement?

Making the Olympic Games.

What talent do you wish you had?

Being able to sing.

How would you like to be remembered?

As a great friend, son, father and brother, who lived happily with no regrets!