Youth squad receive top tips from World Championships medallists Kate and Izzy

World Championship medallists Kate Shortman and Izzy Thorpe have been giving top tips to members of Swim England’s artistic swimming youth squad during a visit to their week-long training camp.

Shortman and Thorpe, who earned Great Britain’s first ever artistic swimming World Championships podium place after taking silver in the technical duet final in Doha, dropped in to show off their medals and give the 16-strong squad some expert advice.

The squad were working on their routines ahead of the Youth European Championships and the Primorje Cup in Croatia in May and June respectively.

Paris 2024 Olympic Games qualifiers Shortman and Thorpe spoke to the youth squad about the new scoring system and how to stay focused during events

Karen Thorpe, Swim England artistic swimming manager, said: “It was great to see Kate and Izzy inspiring the youth squad.

“They gave them a little presentation on the new scoring system and how to stay calm when swimming so they don’t lose marks plus different coping strategies on how to deal with nerves when at competitions.

Hard work continues

“Not so long ago, Kate and Izzy were both part of the same squad and that helps motivate everyone attending the camp. It makes them realise with dedication and hard work what could be achieved in the future.

“The squad have got some very important events coming up this year but we’re pleased with the progress they are making and we look forward to seeing how they compete on the international stage in the summer.”

Shortman and Thorpe, who also won a bronze medal in the duet free final at the World Championships, are now working towards this summer’s Olympic Games.

They will compete at the Olympic pool in May at the World Cup as part of their Paris preparations.

Karen added: “The World Championships success and qualification for the Olympics has given them a huge amount of belief.

“The hard work continues, though, and they will be doing everything they can to help inspire the next generation with their performances in the pool at the biggest event in world sport.”