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Sportsvibe Interview

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Sportsvibe

Sportsvibe managed to grab a few minutes between lengths to put a few questions to top Brit swimmer Liam Tancock, winner of the 50m backstroke at the 2009 Fina World Championships and current World Record holder for 50m Backstroke. Liam is also a brand ambassador for Speedo www.speedo.co.uk 

How did you get into your sport?

I learnt to swim when I was 5, and then went into a local swimming club (Exeter City SC).

What's the best thing about your sport?

Racing!

Who is your biggest inspiration in your sport?

I don’t have one.

Do you admire anybody outside of your own sport?

Yes. Anyone who has competed at the highest level within their sport. Such like Michael Jordan, David Beckham, Lewis Hamilton and Kelly Slater.

Who is the best player you’ve played with/against?

I guess you would have to say the best swimmer of all time, Michael Phelps.

Do you have any pre-match rituals or superstitions?

Not really, but I never get my hands wet, when getting ready for a backstroke start.

Tell us about your training schedule? What does it involve and how does it change, i.e. before matches etc?

I train 10 pool sessions each of 2 ½ hours, 3 weights sessions and 2 extra sessions a week. I use a Powerplate to enhance core training. Training does decrease just before a Major Competition

Who is the funniest player at your club/who you've swum with?

Kris Gilchrist is pretty funny

What is the most memorable moment in your sporting career to date?

Becoming World Champion in a new World Record time.

What are do you want to achieve next in swimming? What are your goals?

Short Term – to compete at the 2010 Commonwealth Games in India Long Term – To Compete at the 2012 London Olympic Games

If you hadn’t of been a swimmer what would you have been?

Maybe Rugby

What will you do after your sporting career is over?

I’m still not 100% sure. Travel the world at first, then decide.

What music (if any) do you listen to when training?

I don’t really as I’m submerged in water, but the pool usually has chart music playing in the background.

What do you do on a day off/in your spare time?

Chill out with friends, eat nice food and go to Ragdale Hall Health Spa.

If you had 24 hours to live, how would you spend it?

Probably on a beach, surfing in the morning, then something to get my adrenalin going in the afternoon like skydiving and go for a nice meal with my family and friends in the evening.

What is your favourite film?

I haven’t got a favourite but Shawshank Redemption will be up there.

Do you get any strange fan mail?

Not really strange, I tend to get most messages posted on my website www.liamTancock.com or on facebook but they are all supportive!

What is the funniest thing you’ve read/heard about yourself in the media?

Nothing really, but I have been asked when I am doing Dancing on Ice or Strictly Come Dancing – no chance - for the forseeable future anyway!

Tell us a joke about your sport?

I don’t think there are any jokes about swimming.