Former Olympic champion Duncan Goodhew inspires Stradbroke swimmers
A north Suffolk swim facility says it feels “inspired” and “honoured” after a special visit from an Olympic swimming gold medallist.
Stradbroke Swim and Fitness Centre was packed with swimmers of all ages and experience levels when it recently welcomed Duncan Goodhew, best known for claiming a gold and a bronze at the 1980 Moscow Olympic Games.
The 58-year-old swimmer, who was made an MBE, provided lessons and words of wisdom to adults and children, beginners and above, as the centre prepares for the 2016 Swimathon this month, where it is aiming for another national top ten finish following last year’s second place.
Mr Goodhew, who previously helped open the centre back in 1991, said: “I think Stradbroke’s success is a testament to everybody’s hard work. The encouragement people get when they get out of the pool is amazing.”
Len Phoenix, swim instructor at Stradbroke Swim Centre, described Mr Goodhew as an ‘absolute revelation’.
“He were very honoured to have him back. The praise he heaped on us was absolutely amazing,” said Mr Phoenix.
The centre is still accepting sign-ups for the Swimathon, on March 18, 19 and 20.
For details, go to www.everyoneactive.com/centre/stradbroke-swimming-pool-and-fitness-centre