I'm already well into the swing of 2011 and I can't believe how fast 2010 went!
It was a mixed year in terms of performance, I was disappointed to lose my World title at the Open Water World Champs in Canada finishing in 8th place. Later in the year though, at the Commonwealth Games, I regained some confidence when I won my first international medal for the 400m Individual Medley. I was so excited to swim in Delhi, the media made out that it was a shambles but it was an amazing experience that I wouldn't change for anything.
On a personal note I got engaged to fellow swimmer David Carry and I am having fun (but a little scared) planning the wedding which will be in September 2012. I also found out my sister, Janine is expecting her first child and I will be an auntie again, I can't wait!!
On to 2011...In the past few weeks I have had a couple of competitions, one in Sheffield where I swam the 400m Freestyle and one in Antwerp at "The Flanders Cup Meet" where I swam the 200m, 400m and 800m Freestyle. I was very pleased with my 200m as it was the first time I have been under two minutes. Good to get another milestone under my belt.
I have just started a three week training camp in Pretoria, South Africa. I grew up just down the road in Jo'burg so it's always great to come back and see old friends as well as my first swimming coach, Di Williamson, who is one of the main reasons why I love swimming so much! I can't wait to get on with some more hard work before the British team trials for the World Championships, which take place in early March in Manchester.
Here's to a successful 2011 in and out of the pool!
