Ariarne Titmus signs on as face of Melbourne Cup Day

Olympian Ariarne Titmus says she is hungry for more swimming success, as she reveals how horse riding has already played a part in her gold medal haul.

Olympics hero Ariarne Titmus says her former life as a competitive horse rider taught her to be calm and focused as a future champion in the swimming pool.

Titmus, who won two gold medals in Tokyo, is Victoria Racing Club’s official ambassador for Lexus Melbourne Cup Day.

Long before her pool prowess, Titmus owned horses, rode them, and competed in dressage and show jumping events as child growing up in Tasmania.

Tokyo Olympic Games gold medallist Ariarne Titmus riding retired thoroughbred racehorse Immortalis ahead of e. Picture: Zak Simmonds

“I loved the connection that you can make with a horse,” Titmus said. “Horses help you relax. In sport, swimming and equestrian are very chalk-and-cheese, but (growing up with horses) I was always a calm person; relaxed.”

Titmus is honoured about her role at the Melbourne Cup Carnival, and hopes restrictions are eased so she can attend the horse race that stops a nation.

“I’m looking forward to switching my swimmers for racewear and revelling in the spirit of the day,” she said.

Meanwhile, Titmus is adjusting life after her Tokyo triumphs, but has vowed to stay humble.

“I only swim because I love it. I don’t swim for the fame or the wins. I do it because it’s my favourite thing to do in the world.

“But I’m hungry to win more,” Titmus said. “When you get a taste of winning at the highest level, it a hard to describe, but it’s an addictive feeling.”

VRC chief executive Steve Rosich said Titmus’ “spirit, determination ... and unparalleled talent inspired a nation”.

The Lexus Melbourne Cup will run on November 2.