Meet Laura
C squad, a bit of B, White and Black
Meet Laura! Laura has been part of Glenrothes swimming for most of her life – as a swimmer, coach, and as a parent of four children in the club.
Swimming has been a constant thread in Laura’s life since the age of four, when she first joined Glenrothes Amateur Swimming Club. Over the years, she’s worn many hats – age group swimmer, masters swimmer, coach, and now proud parent of four children who all swim with the club. For Laura, swimming has always been more than just a sport; it’s been her social circle, a place where lifelong friendships were formed, and a community she continues to give back to. Whether in the water, on poolside, or cheering from the stands, her passion for the sport and the club remains as strong as ever.
1. What made you decide to get into swimming?
I was a swimmer from the age of 4 and competed from a very young age. Swimming was my social life; I loved it and made lifelong friends there. When my own children started swimming, they loved it too, which made me want to start helping and giving back what my coaches gave to me.
2. How long have you been a swimmer?
Since I was 4 years old. I started competing from the age of 6.
3. Which teams did you/do you swim for?
I have only ever been part of Glenrothes Amateur Swimming Club and I am still registered as a masters swimmer with them now (although how much I train and compete is debatable!
4. How many hours did you/do you train per week?
At my peak, I trained around 8-10 times per week. This included 3 morning sessions before school, every evening and once, sometimes twice on a Sunday.
Now, I'm lucky if I have any time for my toes to touch the water!
5. What's your favourite gala/competition?
As a coach, I really enjoy all the galas. I absolutely love seeing all the hard work pay off when swimmers train and commit to the sport. I enjoy all the bigger Scottish and British competitions as you get to see some of the world's best compete, e.g. Duncan Scott.
6. What's your favourite event?
50m, 100m and 200m breaststroke 👌
7. What's your favourite stroke?
Breaststroke 🤩
8. What's your best PB?
1:19.45 for 100m breast
9. What's your preferred pre-race snack?
I loved eating pickled onion rolls with butter! Not very 'healthy' 😂
I also love dried mango and flapjacks!
10. What would you say to encourage future swimmers to get involved?
Swimming is a sport that can help with lots of things. It is so good for your physical and mental health and it is a great way to meet new people who enjoy the same thing. It's not about becoming an Olympian, it's about getting out of your comfort zone, pushing yourself and building resilience 🙂