Interview with Enduro aka David Davies

This months interview is with Enduro aka David Davies, Olympic Bronze Medallist 2004.

1. How did you first get in to swimming?

My mum and dad took me to the local leisure centre to learn to swim classes. I really enjoyed it, joined the local club and started competing at age 7. When I was 9 we moved to Cardiff and I joined the club there and progressed through the ranks until I competed at the Olympics.

2. How did it feel to win the bronze medal in Athens?

It was very surreal. I was so shocked and happy but it didn't really sink in for a while. When it did I felt proud and amazed at what I had done.

3. Are you hoping for another medal in Beijing this year?

I would love to get another one. Getting my medal in 2004 was the best day of my life. It will be hard but I have been doing lots of training so hopefully I'll do it!

4. You injured your foot in 2006, are you over it now?

It put me out of action for a while and I missed some major events, but I am completely over it now. I caught an infection from a pool in Australia and it affected my ankle joint. I needed an operation and was out of the pool for 3 months. I found it very frustrating not being able to train and it was hard to get my fitness back.

5. I hear you are entering the 10k event at the South Africa Open Water Championships next month. What’s the idea behind that?

They announced the 10k as an Olympic event and British Swimming advised us that lots of 1500m swimmers were trying it so I thought I would give it a go. It will give me good extended training practice for the 1500m.

6. How does 10k in open water compare with 1500m in the pool?

I'm not sure as I haven't swam in open water yet. This will be my first attempt. My main focus is still the 1500m as this is the event I have been focusing on for the past 7 years. But if an opportunity arises with the 10k I will take it.

7. Swimming such long distances, do you use anything to help you to recover?

I use a sports recovery drink called For Goodness Shakes. I have it straight after training when I jump out of the pool. It's a good recovery aid, it's good for you and it tastes nice as well.

8. You are from Wales but now live and train in Loughborough, is it hard being away from your family and friends from home?

Yes it is, everyone loves home. I try to get back there as much as possible, but Loughborough is a great place to train.

9. Do you have any pets?

Yes, I've got a Labrador puppy. He spends half of his time in Wales and half with me. I try to see him as much as I can but it's hard when I'm away on the other side of the world.

10. What would you be doing if you weren’t swimming?

I don't know, I've never imagined doing anything else. I am doing a degree in criminology next year so maybe a career in the police or something similar.

11. Any top tips for young swimmers…?

Work hard, enjoy yourself and always listen to your coach.