Red Deer’s Rebecca Smith is on her way to representing Canada on an international stage once again.
The 22-year-old swimmer is headed to Budapest, Hungary to take part in the FINA World Championships from June 18-July 3.
This will be Smith’s fourth World Championships after appearing in 2021 in Abu Dhabi, 2019 in Gwangju, and 2017 in Budapest.
“Just getting super excited to race… I have lots of experience but every time it’s just always exciting. I think just getting up and racing again and being with the national team is always so special. To see my friends again and to race together as a team is always so much fun,” Smith said.
Related:
Red Deer swimmer Rebecca Smith named to Team Canada for World Championships
During the world championships in 2021, she won three gold medals in team events but individually she won a silver medal in the 200-metre freestyle.
She also conquered a dream of playing in the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games winning silver in the women’s 4×100 m freestyle. The achievement dates back to when she was 15-years-old she decided the Olympics would be her main goal.
“I accomplished that dream last summer when I was at the Olympics and so I love being on the national team it’s something I really enjoy,” she said.
Related:
Red Deer swimmer Rebecca Smith returns to international stage
Her quest for a medal starts on June with the 100m butterfly as well as the 4x100m and 4x200m freestyle relay. She added when competing in team relay events, you have extra motivation because you’re not only swimming for yourself but for your teammates which makes relay so special.
She explained gaining experience has helped her in her career but the nerves are always going to be there despite her long resume of international tournaments.
“I think that’s super important because it shows I care. So, definitely nervous excited I think that really helps me go in before a race,” she said.
When she’s not donning the maple leaf she competes with the University of Calgary Dinos’ swim team while working on her nursing degree.
“I love swimming varsity and being with my Dinos teammates. They are just the best they support me all the time in everything I do so I’m lucky to have them,” she added.