Mahoney returns to roots for EnergyAustralia GO Swim Month
Swimming Australia
Published: Oct 15, 2012 12:36:15 PM Updated: Nov 13, 2012 12:10:00 PM
The Monbulk Aquatic Club in Melbourne’s east will receive a visit from Australia’s 400m individual medley short course champion Travis Mahoney today, as part of EnergyAustralia GO Swim Month.
Mahoney, who originally began his swimming journey at Wantirna’s Genesis Fitness Centre, will return to his swimming roots to inspire the next generation of swimmers.
“This is the centre where I learnt to swim and fell in love with the sport. I can remember winning a backstroke race when I started out; I knew from that moment on that I wanted to swim,” Mahoney said.
Mahoney has since joined the Nunawading Swimming Club where support from his club and teammates has propelled him to a national title.
“I wasn't the best swimmer as a junior and only made my first national competition at 16. I collected my first national medal when I was 20 and only a month ago won my first national title at the Australian Short Course Championships. I know this wouldn’t have been possible without my teammates who pushed me, and helped me set new training standards for myself.”
Mahoney is a great believer in working hard, but also emphasizes the importance of making the sport fun and enjoyable.
“Some may perceive swimming to be an individual sport, but having great teammates makes training so much better and a lot more enjoyable. Racing in relays is probably the best thing you do with your teammates; having success with three other guys is very rewarding. They're not just teammates they're friends for life.”
The 22-year-old hopes that members of the Monbulk Aquatic Club will push themselves to succeed in the sport and encourages swimmers to keep going even if they aren’t the best at the moment.
Creating dynamic and supportive club environments is important says EnergyAustralia Director, Adrian Merrick who is proud to be supporting GO Swim month.
“In partnership with Swimming Australia we will seek out new and innovative opportunities for our customers, to support elite Australian swimmers to achieve their goals and promote safe and healthy swimming for Australian families,” Mr Merrick says.
GO Swim days will continue throughout October, for more information on how to join a club or get involved with the GO Swim activities, visit www.goswim.org.au
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