Rebecca Adlington
Introduction
Rebecca Adlington is well-known for being an Olympic swimmer. She is incredibly talented at her sport. She is a brilliant example of perseverance because she still carries on even when she gets tired.
Childhood
Rebecca Adlington was born on 17th February 1989 in Mansfield, Nottinghamshire. She lived with her mum and dad and 2 sisters.
At the age of 4 she learnt to swim. 3 years later she started to train at the Sherwood Colliery Swimming Club. In 2006 she beat her personal best in the 400m individual medley.
Career
In 2008 she attended her first Olympics in Beijing. She won 2 gold medals in the 400m and 800m. In 2010, aged 21, Rebecca took part in the National Speedo ‘B’ Final. She also took part in the European Swimming Championships in Budapest, where she won the individual 400m freestyle. She won bronze as part of the 4 by 200m freestyle relay team. At the age of 22, Rebecca won the 800 metre freestyle gold medal and silver in 400 metre freestyle. In 2012 she attended the London Summer Olympics. She won a bronze medal.
Other Achievements
Aged 19, Adlington was named as the Sports Journalists’ Association of Great Britain’s Sportswoman of the Year. Rebecca was also voted third in BBC’s Sports Personality of the Year award. One year later, she was appointed Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the New Year Honours.
Conclusion
Rebecca has now retired at the age of 23. She will inspire a new generation of young swimmers. Throughout her career, Rebecca has shown good perseverance.
By Amy and Laura