Beverley-born Lizzie Simmonds will be one of Great Britain’s brightest prospects for a medal this summer, as Team GB is hoping to make the best of a home advantage in the London 2012 Olympic Games.
Lizzie is swimming the 200m backstroke for Team GB and at only 21years old, she is seeded in the top 8 in the world.
Representing her country since the age of 14, the Olympic star knows how London 2012 poses a unique opportunity for Olympic glory.
Lizzie said: “Preparing for the Olympics takes over your life and all the British Athletes have made extra sacrifices this year to ensure we are fit to represent Britain on home soil.”
“It’s a massive commitment to dedicate your life to being at the top of your sport, but it will all be worth it if I can stand on the Olympic podium in front of my home crowd.”
“I’m so proud to be representing Great Britain and am really grateful to all the support I get from everyone around me, especially my family and friends.”
Lizzie´s father, Paul Simmonds, who runs ink and toner company Tonik.co.uk in Beverley, knows better than anyone the sacrifices his daughter has made to get on the team.
“I’ve watched Lizzie put her heart and soul into training since she was a little girl – she has so many supporters in East Yorkshire, Lincolnshire and (seemingly) around the world!”
“We all try and help where we can, and have put in plenty of early mornings over the years, but that’s nothing compared to her dedication and drive. We’re immensely proud of her achievements.”
It seems anyone who gets close to the family is swept up with Olympic enthusiasm, even within Paul’s business in Beverley.
Mel Hopper, who works at Tonik said: “After seeing up-close what Olympians and their families put into the Games, I have a new respect for British athletes. We’ll be holding our breath for Lizzie, and work will have to stop for a few minutes whilst she’s swimming.”
You can watch Lizzie in the 200m backstroke heats and semi-finals on August 2nd and, hopefully, in the August 3rd finals.
