Young Stone swimmers got a masterclass from an Olympic legend as Duncan Goodhew put them through their paces.
The 1980 Moscow Olympics gold medallist was at Stone Swimming Club at Alleynes Sports Centre on Monday night to see the great work the club is doing – and also to pass on some tips to young club members.
He brought along his gold medal for the children to look at and an Olympic torch from the Beijing Olympics of 2008. But it was in the pool that he really worked his magic, showing the youngsters just how to do it and then working with groups of them.
Children, parents and club volunteers loved it – and so, it seemed, did Duncan, who really inspired the youngsters.
Club member Mark Thane was responsible for bringing Duncan to Stone and picked him up himself from Stoke station – something that caused quite a few butterflies!
This is what Mark had to say…
Town mayor June Price was there to welcome Duncan to Stone. At the end of the evening she said it had been the highlight of her year in office.
Here’s an interview with Duncan Goodhew. He even had some words of advice for Stone’s London 2012 slalom canoeist Lizzie Neave – and LOTS to say about the power of swimming.
Duncan received a Stone Swimming Club T-shirt from some of the youngest members and even gave out an award himself – to member Rob Stevenson, who has clocked up 39 years with the club, starting as a young swimmer in the 1970s and now a long-time volunteer coach.
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4 comments
Westfamily
What a truly fabulous and unforgettable evening for all those present at Alleyne’s Pool last night for Duncan Goodhew’s visit to Stone Swimming Club!
He was the perfect guest; charming, fun, passionate, knowledgeable, enthusiastic, inspirational and a true ambassador of swimming.
He has given us all a huge lift!
Huge thanks to all the volunteers, members, their families, Alleyne’s Pool staff and especially to Mark Thain for organizing such a memorable night.
Congratulations to Rob on his award too!
jvictor7
Hello the West family! Agree with every word 🙂 To be honest, I’m still smiling about Duncan’s visit tonight. The town mayor said it was the best event of her year in office, which says a lot as she’s the official beer taster for Lymestone Brewery!! It was a truly special evening
DavidB
A fantastic evening that I and my children will remember for a long time – what a lovely man! Thank you Mark and SADSC.
Little Bit of Stone
Hi David. Wasn’t it just fantastic? Duncan Goodhew was just amazing, a real hero. Make sure you check back on this post later as there’ll be some video of Duncan and the kids