Upwey swimmer Sarah Chaplin aims for 2023 Special Olympics
Despite many challenges, Sarah is determined to swim for Australia at the 2023 Special Olympics.
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Nominee: Sarah Chaplin
Suburb: Upwey
Age: 20
Sport: Swimming
Club: Special Olympics Victoria Melbourne Eastern Ranges
Coach: Belinda McCormack
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How old were you when you took up your sport? Seven
How did you get involved in this sport? I started swimming at school sports and decided I really enjoyed the sport took it up.
Recent competitions:
— Special Olympics World Summer Games representing Team Australia in Abu Dhabi March 2019
Recent awards:
— State Games Medals 2018
— Nationals Games medals 2018
— World summer games medals 2019
What has been your biggest success? My biggest achievement was getting selected for Team Australia and coming home with a gold, three silvers and three personal best times.
Describe your training routine: I train twice a week with my club, mornings and nights.
Then two to three times on my own training mornings and nights.
What do you love most about your sport? I enjoy competing in swimming because it keeps me fit and helps me make friends from all over the world. Also helps keep my strength up.
Toughest challenge you’ve faced in your sport: World games was a very tough competition I put everything I had into this competition and putting my body on the line. The challenges I have overcome are injuries, multiple disabilities and medical conditions that I have.
What is your ultimate sporting goal? Making it to the 2023 Special Olympics World Summer Games in Berlin.
Who are your sporting heroes? Grant Hackett, Brooke Hanson, Mack Horton, the Campbell sisters.
‘I couldn’t have done this without …’ My coaches Grant William and Belinda McCormack and my parents Julie and Peter Chaplin.
Know someone with great sporting talent? Nominate a Leader Local Sports Star from your neighbourhood.
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