Tassie’s golden girl Ariarne Titmus returns to her old stomping ground in Launceston

Ariarne Titmus broke down in tears, overcome with emotion after meeting one young fan in Launceston. Here’s why.

NCA. PARIS FRANCE 2024 OLYMPIC GAMES. August 5- Day 10 Ariarne Titmus attends a Speedo function after competition. Pics Adam Head

Olympic golden girl Ariarne Titmus was on a mission to meet as many young Tasmanian kids as possible.

Her impact on the next generation led to a heartwarming encounter at the Harvey Norman Launceston meet and greet.

Titmus took to Instagram to share meeting a little girl who brought along a handmade book.

In the book were photos of Titmus and the little girl’s dream of one day competing in an Olympic swimming race alongside the four-time gold medallist.

“Those things actually melt my heart, and I actually broke down and started crying with the family,” Titmus said.

“I really, really enjoyed today, meeting as many little kids as I possibly can.”

For anyone who missed her, Titmus will be at Rebel Launceston at 10.30am on Sunday.

Earlier, Titmus is ticking off all the sites during her trip to her home state, including one close to her heart — the pool.

Titmus wrote in an Instagram post that she was feeling very nostalgic during her visit.

Ariarne Titmus visits Tasmania. Returning to the Launceston Aquatic Centre where a pool has been renamed to honour her. Picture Instagram

“Popped in to check out the old stomping ground,” she said at the Launceston Aquatic Centre.

“This is still a pinch myself moment every time I see it.”

She was posing under the “Ariarne Titmus Competition Pool” sign.

The centre that she spent countless hours honing her skills as a youngster has named the competitive pool after her.

The 50m competition pool was christened in 2022 and at that time she said she felt so “humbled and blessed”.

It’s the same pool Titmus credits as where her swimming career took off, and the place she won her first national titles as an under-13.

She also didn’t miss out on the spectacular aurora australis that amazed many Tasmanians on Friday night.

Ariarne Titmus visits Tasmania. Enjoying the aurora australis. Picture Instagram

Taking to social media, Titmus posted a photo celebrating the dazzling occasion alongside a friend.

The Olympian will be at a meet and greet at Harvey Norman Launceston from 11am.

Fans will have the chance to get an autograph and free photo with the swimmer.