Flipturned
Exclusive Interview with Penny Oleksiak
At the age of 16, swimmer Penny Oleksiak has made Canadian history as an Olympic medalist. Oleksiak made her debut at the 2016 Olympic Summer Games in Rio, winning four medals and setting five Canadian records.Maclean's Magazine called her "our best ever summer Olympian" and many others would agree that she has made Canada proud. She is currently training in Toronto with coach Bill O'Toole as she finishes high school at Monarch Park Collegiate.
1.Q: When and why did you start swimming?
A: "I started when I was 9 years old as I had first started in gymnastics and it didn't work out."
​
​
2.Q: When did you decide you wanted to try for the Olympics?
A: My coach, Bill, told me the summer before he thought I could make it and then I really wanted it to happen although i wasn't 100% sure."
​
​
3.Q: How did you manage swimming and school while training for the Olympics?
A: "I took a reduced course load and online courses."
​
​
4.Q: What was your favorite race in Rio? Why?
A: "The 4x100 free relay as I got to share it with my teammates. A very special moment for me."
5.Q: What has been your favorite moment being part of Team Canada?
A: "Sharing success with my teammates and hearing the Canadian anthem when I won the gold medal."
​
​
6.Q: What are your goals for the next few years?
A: "To keep enjoying what I do, having fun and doing the best I can everyday. As long as that's happening, I'll be satisfied."
​
​
7.Q: What were/are your thoughts during really important races?
A: " Just to know I've done all I can do to this point, stay relaxed, excited and not to worry as no matter what happens I will know I have given it my best."
​
​
8.Q: What's your favorite set?
A: "Sprint sets are my favourite and timed 50's are the most exciting. Anything like that."
​
​
9.Q: Who's your biggest influence? Why?
A: "Probably my coaches because they are always positive and put a lot of faith in me."
​
​
10.Q: Do you have any advice for swimmers who are trying for Team Canada?
A: "Just keep enjoying what you do, listen to your coach and have fun!"
​
Thank you to Penny and Bill for making this possible!