Olympic legend makes a splash at Vinehall visit

The double gold medallist from the Beijing 2008 Olympics and double bronze medallist from the London 2012 Olympics spoke to the whole school about her training and competition, as well as the experience of competing and winning at the highest level.

Staff and pupils were thrilled to host the popular Olympic athlete.

Vinehall headmaster Richard Follett said: “It is fantastic that Rebecca was willing to join us for the afternoon and spend so much time talking to the children.

“She has been a superb role model to all of them, and it was a fitting reward for the Vinehall Swimming Team who have put in so much dedicated training over the course of the year.”

Vinehall Girls’ Swimming Captain, Morgan Giampaolo, said: “It was amazing to be able to talk to someone who has been the best in the world at her sport as well as a world record holder.

“She is a total inspiration and has made me want to train even harder!”

Rebecca Adlington concluded her visit with photos and autographs for the large crowd of children and adults.

If time had permitted, they would have stayed long into the evening to listen to more of her stories of international swimming success which spans a career dating back ten years.

Vinehall School has a strong reputation for swimming and this year had seven swimmers competing at the IAPS National Finals at the K2 Arena in Crawley.

Following the inspirational visit from Rebecca Adlington, Vinehall says it sure there will be more to come in future years as children look to follow in her footsteps.