Beneath The Surface Of Masters: Becky Milnes

The Masters Hub continues to look deeper into the lives and personalities at the heart of the UK Masters swimming and aquatics community through our ‘Beneath The Surface’ feature.

Look out for video interviews as well as some fantastic underwater photos courtesy of GB Swimstars.

Our third feature is with the ASA’s very own Volunteer Engagement Officer Becky Milnes who swims for Nottingham Leander Swimming Club and Stocksbridge Pentaqua Swimming Club…

How long have you been involved in swimming?

I’ve been swimming all my life so I was in the pool from about six months old then I started competitive swimming at about seven. I’ve swam all the way through and now compete at Masters level.  Coming from the competitiveness of being an age group swimmer, I wanted to keep that challenge aspect but Masters is a lot more relaxed and it’s more about fun.

How often do you train?

I try and train as much as I can during the week so there are a group of us who train about five times a week for 45 minute sessions. I’ll then try and supplement that with a couple of gym sessions a week as well.

How do you spend your time when you aren’t in the pool?

I work for the ASA as Volunteer Engagement Officer. I coach at Loughborough University and Stocksbridge Pentaqua swimming clubs and this year I will be teaching swimming as well. I live with my partner Phil and enjoy going to the gym and eating lots!

What are your favourite events and competitions?

The shorter the better in terms of events! And anything that doesn’t involve breaststroke!!! For meets, my favourite is the National Masters short course at Ponds Forge.

What’s the highest accolade you’ve achieved?

I recently achieved a Masters world record in a relay team and was national champion in the 100m Backstroke and 200m Individual Medley at Nationals this year.

What do you love about swimming?

Everything! I love the competitive element but also that Masters is so much fun and the team spirit is great.

What do you hate about swimming?

Being wet all the time and looking like a scruff with wet hair and no make-up at work after my swims!

What are you most proud of in your swimming career?

That I’m still getting faster and swimming PBs in my 30s!

• Click here to find out how you can get involved with Masters swimming.