Caitlin Evans

Tell us about your earliest swimming memory.

When I was nine months old, my parents took me for lessons at FunkiFlippers Swim School. I remember swimming my first race in their pool when I was about two and a half years old. It was so much fun. I knew it was something I wanted to keep doing.

Why is swimming such a special sport for you?

Swimming requires hard work and discipline if you want to achieve your goals. The thrill and excitement of improving your times after putting in hours of hard work are incredible. Swimming is a combination of individual and team participation which I thoroughly enjoy. I have made some fantastic friends and look forward to training with them every day.

Which of your achievements are you the proudest of and why?

The two achievements that stand out for me are the 200IM at Western Cape Champs in Dec 2021. It was a tough race, and I achieved my first SANJ qualifying time. Two days later, I achieved a South African national qualifying time for the 3km event at the Lomond open water race. I could not participate in SA Nationals because I was too young. Still, it felt incredible to qualify, and it was the perfect ending to a great week of racing.

How do you stay motivated throughout the season?

My coach assists me in setting my goals at the start of the season, and I constantly refer back to these. This helps keep me focused and acknowledges that my hard work pays off as I get closer and closer to achieving my goals. The team is a big part of how I stay motivated as well. I have so much fun with my teammates at training that I always look forward to going back the next day. We're great at pushing each other, and my coach knows how to bring out the best in us.

What are your goals for the year ahead?

My goals over the next year are to continue improving my times and medal at SA Junior Nationals next year. I would also like to compete at the SA National 3km open water event in Jeffery's Bay.

What do you do to prepare for a race?

Before every race, I chat with my coach. She gives me tips and reminds me of a few things to focus on in my race. I have a very positive mindset and like to focus on what I can control. Listening to good songs before a race also helps motivate me.

Apart from swimming, what do you do for fun?

If I'm not in the pool, you'll most likely find me on the hockey field or the squash court. I love to spend my time with my family and friends. I also enjoy painting, playing games on my iPad and baking.

Why are you excited to be a part of the Speedo family?

When I was just a few months old, I had a pair of bright orange speedo armbands. For as long as I can remember, Speedo and swimming have always gone hand in hand. The Speedo ambassadors and team have always inspired me. I am so excited to be selected to represent Speedo and have the opportunity to inspire other young swimmers to reach for their dreams.