URGENT UPDATE: Dual Olympic medallist Tasmin Cook is set to inspire the next generation of swimmers in Bendigo! Cook will serve as the guest coach for the second session of Swimming Bendigo’s Project Velocity on Saturday, December 6, at the Bendigo East Swimming Pool.
This exciting event comes just in time for local swimmers as they prepare for the upcoming Victorian State Age Championships. Cook, who won a silver medal in the women’s 4 x 200m freestyle relay at the 2016 Rio Olympics and a bronze in the same event at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, is eager to share her insights and experiences with up to 40 young athletes from the Bendigo East, Bendigo Hawks, and Kangaroo Flat swimming clubs.
“I’m really excited to be coming to Bendigo and working with the Project Velocity squad,” Cook stated. “Sharing my journey and helping young swimmers push their limits is something I’m passionate about.” Her visit underscores the importance of regional initiatives that provide aspiring athletes with the chance to dream big and chase their goals.
Swimming Bendigo’s Project Velocity, led by Josh Beaver, a fellow Olympian and four-time Commonwealth Games medallist, is designed to build a solid foundation for swimmers across central Victoria. Beaver expressed, “Being part of Project Velocity has been incredibly rewarding. The squad is showing great commitment, and having Tasmin join us will only elevate the energy and learning.”
The collaboration between Cook and local clubs illustrates a significant boost for country swimming. Adam Webb, president of Swimming Bendigo, emphasized the impact of having elite athletes involved. “For our Velocity squad swimmers to have access to legends of the sport in both Josh Beaver and Tasmin Cook is a huge boost for country swimming,” he said.
In related news, a trio from Bendigo East, including coach John Jordan and swimmers Cameron Jordan and Henry Allan, are currently overseas as part of Swimming Victoria’s USA Open Tour. This three-day competition, which began on December 3, is aimed at exposing Victoria’s top athletes to world-class competition, crucial for their preparation leading into the 2028 Olympic year.
Swimming Victoria’s performance co-ordinator, Bowen Gough, highlighted the importance of this experience. “The depth of competition in Austin will be outstanding with the world’s best swimmers attending, which is exactly the type of competition our athletes need at this stage of their preparation.”
As the countdown to the event ticks away, local swimmers are more motivated than ever. The opportunity to learn from icons like Cook and Beaver promises to be a transformative experience for Bendigo’s emerging talents. Don’t miss out on this incredible moment—share the news and support our young athletes as they strive for greatness!
