Scottish swimmer Toni Shaw hopes the home comforts she enjoyed in the build-up to the Paralympic Games will enhance her bid for another medal on the biggest stage.
Shaw, 20, won Britain’s first swimming medal at the last Paralympics in Tokyo when she claimed bronze in the women’s S9 400m freestyle. She then left her native north-east to swim and study at the University of Stirling but has now returned to the Granite City, where she is part of the University of Aberdeen’s Performance Swimming programme.
"I love working in Aberdeen. The squad I am in, everyone is so friendly," she told BBC Sport Scotland. "It is like I get to go swimming with most of my best friends every day, so it is just a really nice thing to be part of. I am so comfortable in Aberdeen, it was just right for me at the time, there was no significant thing that made me want to move, it was just right for me. I am really happy where I am just now and working with Patrick [Miley, high performance coach] is really good. It is probably the most important part; you are going to the pool eight times a week so if you are not going there and enjoying it, it is just not going to work. Being with such a positive squad definitely helps."
Shaw's Return to Aberdeen: The Benefits of a Familiar Environment
Shaw's decision to return to Aberdeen speaks volumes about the importance of finding the right environment for optimal performance. For an athlete who dedicates countless hours to training, a sense of belonging and comfort is crucial for both physical and mental well-being. The camaraderie within the University of Aberdeen’s Performance Swimming programme provides a supportive atmosphere that fosters a sense of team spirit and motivation. The positive impact of this environment on Shaw's training and her overall well-being is evident in her positive outlook and enthusiasm.
Overcoming Challenges: A Test of Resilience
Shaw's preparation for Paris has been far from ideal, with a stress injury in her lower back hampering her season. This setback serves as a reminder that the path to athletic success is rarely linear. Despite the adversity, Shaw's determination and resilience shone through. She was still able to achieve the Paralympic qualifying time in the 400m freestyle, demonstrating her commitment to achieving her goals.
The Tokyo Experience: A Defining Moment
The bronze medal Shaw won at the Tokyo Paralympics stands as a testament to her talent and dedication. It was a significant achievement, not only for Shaw personally but also for Britain as it marked the country's first swimming medal at the Games. Shaw's performance was particularly remarkable considering it was her Paralympic debut.
A Debut to Remember
"That is the biggest meet and to be able to be on the podium was just incredible," she recalled. "I know there was no crowd there but the whole British team were there and I know the whole of my friends and family at home were watching so it was really special."
A Young Talent with Big Dreams: Shaw's Journey to the Top
Shaw's journey to the Paralympic Games is a testament to her passion and determination. She began competing at a young age, joining Team Scotland at the 2018 Commonwealth Games, making her the youngest member of the team at just 14 years old. Since then, Shaw has collected an impressive array of medals at major international competitions including World, European and Commonwealth championships. But it was her Paralympic debut in Tokyo that cemented her status as a force to be reckoned with in the world of swimming.
The Importance of Early Start
"When it comes to swimming, how old you are doesn't really matter, everyone is in the same race. I was lucky to get to start young and I am hopefully still going to be able to keep going a while longer."
Embracing the Pressure: Shaw's Mindset for Success
Despite her young age, Shaw embraces the pressure that comes with competing at the highest level. She acknowledges the nerves and excitement that accompany major competitions, but also the invaluable experience gained from participating in these events. This experience has helped her develop the mental resilience needed to handle the demands of elite-level competition.
A Constant Source of Motivation
"I still get the same feeling every time I go to a big competition as I did the first one, you are still super nervous, super excited and I don't think that feeling will ever go. But having more experience of racing at bigger competitions definitely helps."
Looking Ahead: Paris Beckons
With the Paris Paralympics on the horizon, Shaw is focused on building upon her past successes and achieving even greater heights. Her dedication to training, combined with her positive attitude and support system, bode well for her future prospects. Whether she claims another medal in Paris remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Shaw's journey is one of inspiration and perseverance, a testament to the power of hard work and unwavering determination. She will undoubtedly continue to inspire young athletes and prove that with passion, anything is possible.
