She calls herself the 400m Diva. See Natasha Hastings’ perspective on sport and using the DivaCup. Natasha Hastings is an Olympic, World, and US National Champion Track and Field Sprinter, 10-year DivaCup user.
When and how were you introduced to the DivaCup?
I was introduced to DivaCup in 2012. The brand reached out to work with me and I became interested in what a menstrual cup was and what it could offer. We ended up not working together at the time, but I was intrigued enough to give the product a try on my own. I’ve been exclusively using the DivaCup for almost 10 years now and I’ve never looked back since making the switch.
You won the 4x400m relay at the 2008 and 2016 Olympics. What did that feel like?
It’s still an indescribable feeling. Those were moments that I worked long hours and days for. In both instances, they were dreams come true.
Your foundation, The Natasha Hastings Foundation, is a starting block for girls to become women of confidence in sport and life. What advice do you have for young girls starting in sport?
Most of what you learn on the field is transferable to life in general. So, it’s a time to have fun and excel at your talents, but also a place to make lasting friendships and relationships while also learning discipline and hard work.
Have you ever experienced your menstrual cycle at an important sporting event? If yes, what was that like for you?
My favorite period story is being on my cycle at the 2016 Olympic Trials! I had my usual day 1 cramps, but I did my best to manage the pain and focus on my competition. I made the team – with my DivaCup!
How do you define what it means to be a woman in sport?
There is no definition. It’s up to each individual woman to define who she is and what she represents. We cannot be placed into a box!
