Profiles of Gail Emms & Nathan Robertson

All you need to know about Britain's badminton mixed doubles Olympic silver medal-winning pair Gail Emms and Nathan Robertson.

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Emms & Robertson celebrate reaching the Olympic mixed doubles final in 2004

Only 55 days separate them in age. Nathan was born on 30 May 1977 with Gail celebrating her birthday on 23 July 1977.

They both took up badminton at a young age. Gail when she was just four years old, Nathan waiting a little longer - he was six.

We reckon Ms Emms was always destined for sporting greatness. In 1971 her Mum represented England in the women's football World Cup in Mexico.

Gail and Nathan first played together when they were just 15 years old, but went their separate ways when Gail went to study for her Sport Science degree.

It wasn't until 2001 that the pair joined forces again and won their first title together, the Dutch Open.

These days it's just their height that separates them. Emms stands at 5ft 3.5 inches, Robertson a larger 6ft 2 inches.

They both play their club badminton in the Danish league for Hvidovre. Nathan lives in Denmark during the season whilst Gail commutes - now that's dedication!

It's not a huge surprise they've been so successful at the Games. They were number one in the world in 2003 and are the reigning European champions.

Nathan and Gail's win is only GB's second ever Olympic medal. Simon Archer and Jo Goode won a bronze in the same event four years ago.

Wonder what they ate before their final match? Emms probably opted for her favourite - toast and Marmite, whilst Nathan was probably tucking in to some sushi. Very healthy.

Don't worry even the pros have their off days. Emms reckons her most embarrassing moment was when she turned up at an important quarter final match with only one shoe!

We all have our lucky racquets and superstitions, Gail more than most. She relies on her lucky socks and hair band (along with Nathan) to help her on the court.

Away from badminton, they love their sport. Gail's a hockey, footy and yoga fan while Nathan prefers golf. In fact he loves it so much, if he wasn't so good at smashing shuttles about, he'd like to play for a living.

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