The weekend of March 30 to April 2, 2023 was historical for Mackay - the Masters Swimming Queensland State Championships was held at the Mackay Aquatic Centre. Our Dolphin, Kylie Smith, proudly swam in the newly formed Masters Team created under the Pioneer Swimming Club, the Pioneer Oldphins.
Kylie is swimming royalty for our club – having swam since she was seven, taking the odd break as a young adult, but returning when her own daughters were seeking a club to join. At the Championships, Kylie broke not one but two State records in the 50m Butterfly and 50m Backstroke events! She swam four events and brought home the gold in all. A fantastic feat and one the club is so happy to celebrate!
Kylie tells us her greatest swimming achievements were events like swimming at the Olympic and Commonwealth Games Trials but recently she has been swimming faster than she did in her early years. She attributes this to the choices she makes now with her nutrition and lifestyle but also to her coach, Igor - “Igor has a very effective way of getting the best out of me in a session,” Kylie said. “He has a great sense of humour which keeps training enjoyable plus he makes an effort to get to know his swimmers’ strengths and weaknesses.”
You can see why she loves her daughters being mentored by him also.
Kylie loved swimming for the Club’s Master’s Team, Oldphins, and looks forward to growing it next season. She loves her club – she says, “A club is only as great as the families and members who make it possible. We have incredible families who are so generous in giving their time and dedication to making it a fun and friendly place to allow our swimmers all the opportunities possible to succeed in their sport!”
After smashing out her races over the weekend, Kylie then donned her apron and helped the Club barbeque for the remaining competitors. The North Mackay Sinkers Masters Swimming Club kindly asked Pioneer Swimming Club to hold this fundraising BBQ – many of our swimmers and committee members attended to help out.
Kylie wears many hats in the Club – President, Assistant Coach, Swimmer and Mum to two strong swimmers. She is amazing beyond words and an inspiration to all!
Contributed by Tahnie Malagueno
Kylie Smith at Masters Swimming Championships
Kylie loves backstroke. Photo credit: TS Photography
