What is your name?
Joe
When did you join Spencer Swim Team?
April 2022
What is your swimming background?
I am a lapsed triathlete after having done two Ironman events. I later found that I wanted to continue my swimming journey as this was the event that I enjoyed the most. This led to an enduring love of outdoor swimming, especially sea swimming. I eventually began missing the pool and the need for some training discipline and rigour that led me to Spencer.
When and where do you train with Spencer?
Putney and Earnest Bevin, but I do visit Clapham and Dulwich
What are your swimming goals?
To get better and quicker each year at my favourite events, mainly 100m front crawl and 100m IM
What is your best stroke?
Definitely front crawl, but I also enjoy the variety of individual medley.
What do you enjoy about swimming in a team set-up?
I enjoy the familiarity of being in your lane with your training buddies (who support you during those times when you are not feeling your best), and the different coaches who ensure that it is always a fun and varied session. Swimming is often seen as individualistic. But Spencer has brought me real community
How do you keep disciplined to train frequently?
It is that desire to want to be quicker (at your next event) and just to be fitter.
What has been your best moment as an adult swimmer?
Plunging into the exhilarating waters off Cornall and immersing myself in the thrill of sea swimming, which offers the perfect combination of adventure and natural beauty.
What swimming achievement are you most proud of?
Seven podium finishes at the Staffordshire Masters in 2025, and I hope to do better than that in 2026.
What song gets you in the zone?
“Don’t Stop Me Now” by Queen
Which podcast or online swimming resource do you follow?
An Open Water Swimmer’s Podcast, where Will Ellis asks guests to tell their swim story.
What swimming advice would you give to another masters swimmer?
My advice to a Spencer masters swimmer is to pace yourself for the 90-minute session, keep smiling, and do everything the coach says or incur their wrath.