As a kid growing up in California, I collected autographs.
Kids are always going to be around people who break world records and that. It's how you deal with that. I never let it get in the way of my race, but I am always more than happy after the race to sign autographs and have photos.
If I've done a gig and at the end there are people waiting for autographs, they always seem nervous, but they probably don't realise that I'm more nervous than them. I get very embarrassed.
Signing autographs is weird. I'm an introvert, so it's been a strain in that way.
I remember, once I was going through Nice airport with Roger Moore, and these kids came up and asked for our autographs. Afterwards, Roger said, 'It must be very strange for you. I'm an actor, and signing autographs is part of what I do. But you're a public figure who people don't really know.' He was right.
It's never a good idea for a celebrity to sign autographs or take pictures if a crowd is gathering.
Now, as an astronaut, I have to bring a Sharpie with me everywhere - so I have a pen to sign autographs.