Catherine’s Inspiring Journey: Rekindling a Love for Swimming to Make a Difference

In the hustle and bustle of life, it’s easy to let personal passions slip away. But for Catherine, a mother, full-time finance employee, and community leader, swimming was more than just a hobby, it was a profound part of who she was. Now, after years away from the pool, Catherine is diving back in with a renewed sense of purpose and a challenge close to her heart.

“When I was younger, swimming was a huge part of my life,” Catherine recalls. Competing for Adwick ASC, specialising in backstroke, she thrived on the discipline and joy that the water brought her. Twice-weekly training sessions were the cornerstone of her teenage years. But as University and adult life crept in, swimming, like many things, quietly slipped into the background.

Years later, Catherine finds herself in a different chapter, juggling the roles of wife, mother, school governor, charity treasurer, and even Christmas fair organiser. Yet despite the demands of a full life, something deep within her longed for the peace, strength, and joy she once felt in the water. Inspired by the young people she works with, and the awe-inspiring athletes of the Olympics and her desire to set a positive example for her daughters, she’s taken the plunge once again, reclaiming her love for swimming.

And this time, she’s doing it with a purpose: to swim 50 kilometres by the end of the year to raise funds for the When You Tri campaign.

This campaign, dedicated to giving the children and youth of South Yorkshire opportunities to lead active, fulfilling lives, struck a chord with Catherine. Having seen firsthand the transformative power of sport through her own experiences, she knows how vital it is for young people to have access to physical activities. She’s committed to helping make that a reality, one swim stroke at a time.

Currently, Catherine swims 1.2 kilometres twice a week, a pace that will get her to an impressive 36 kilometres by year’s end. But true to her competitive spirit, she’s pushing herself further, planning to increase her training sessions, build endurance, and go the extra mile to reach her 50 kilometre goal.

It’s a bold challenge, especially for someone who’s balancing so many other responsibilities. But Catherine’s determination is fueled by love. Love for her family, love for her community, and love for the simple joy of swimming. “I want to show my girls what it means to commit to something you care about,” she says with a smile. “And I want the young people at the charity I work for to see that, no matter where you are in life, it’s never too late to set a goal and chase it.”

But it’s not just about personal achievement. Catherine is giving her all to ensure that the children and young people of South Yorkshire can access the same opportunities that shaped her life. Every stroke in the water is a step toward creating brighter futures, and she’s inviting everyone to join her in making a difference.

Her journey, however, is not one she embarks on alone. Supported by her friend and mentor Lindsy, the director at Active Fusion, Catherine’s challenge has become a community endeavour. “Lindsy’s encouragement has meant the world to me,” Catherine shares. “And knowing I’m not just swimming for myself but for something bigger gives me the motivation to keep going.”

As she nears her target, Catherine is planning something special: a swimming session with her daughters to make the final push towards her 50 kilometre goal. The thought of her girls swimming alongside her fills her with pride and joy, a moment of passing on her love for the water to the next generation.

Catherine’s challenge is a heartwarming reminder that it’s never too late to reconnect with the things that bring us joy, and that when we follow our passions, we can uplift others along the way. She acknowledges the difficulties many people face in these challenging times but believes deeply in the power of collective generosity. “Any donation, no matter the size, would be greatly appreciated,” she says. “Your support will go towards helping the children and young people of South Yorkshire to be the best that they can be.”

So, as Catherine dives back into the pool, she’s swimming not just toward a finish line, but toward a future where every child can experience the joy of movement, the discipline of sport, and the feeling of accomplishment.

Thank you, Catherine, for your passion, dedication, and the joyful example you set for all of us! You can support Catherine’s fundraiser here.