Have you ever wondered how your favourite swimmers warm-up for big races, how they got to where they are, and what they’d do if they weren’t a swimmer? We spoke to Scottish swimming superstar Duncan Scott to find out more about him and his swim career so far.

In the Pool

Q: How did you get into swimming?

A: “Swimming for me all began with my dad taking my sister and I to a pool every Sunday to teach us to swim. We both enjoyed being in the water and our parents got us to join South Ayrshire Swimming Club. I don’t remember ever being inspired to start swimming competitively, but I enjoyed the sport and I’m naturally really competitive. My first meet was in the club championships when I was 8 years old.”

Q: Who is your biggest inspiration in swimming?

A: “I’ve had a lot of different inspirations throughout my swim life. The first one I remember is Ian Thorpe. My coach got me his book when I was 10.”

Q: Do you have a pre-race ritual?

A: “I don’t have a ritual, but I have certain things I like to keep consistent. I like being able to prepare in a certain way before a race, whatever the situation, so that I’m ready to go. I always walk out with music on (although the song varies depending on my mood) and go straight to my lane. I make sure the wedge is in place, and then take a couple of seconds to breathe deeply and take in the atmosphere. There’s probably other things I do too that I’m not conscious of.”

Q: How do you overcome physical and mental challenges?

A: “I’ve been lucky enough to have the same coach for 15 years, and I know I can talk to him anytime I’m struggling or finding things difficult.”