Rachel Goh – Post Olympic Trials

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Category: Rachel Goh

Matt: To start off with, congrats on what you have achieved this year and how close you were to making the team, take us through the trials and how you felt you performed?

Rachel: Olympic Trials is always a challenging meet for everyone to perform whilst under the pressures of aiming to make the Olympic team. My performances were disappointing to me personally as I wanted and expected better. I was in the final for the 100m Backstroke and came 6th overall. It wasn't about the end result that disappointed me the most it was that I knew my goal was reachable and I had a better performance in me.

Matt: How were the nerves on the night of the finals?

Rachel: It was a race for me that was difficult to control my head space. I usually live for the bigger swimming moments and enjoy swimming up to that standard although this time was different. I have had a difficult preparation this time which may have affected me this time around.

Matt: Massive pressure with only one chance to qualify, did that affect you at all?

Rachel: No. I was always aware what my best shot would be of making the team which was the 100m Backstroke. My preparation journey was more likely to be the difficult thing to carry through.

Matt: Obviously tough not making the team, was there ever any thoughts of quitting or had this minor setback just made your resolve stronger?

Rachel: I am a swimmer nearing the end of my career in the sport so it is always something you think about. When is the right time to stop? and let go? It is not about quitting for me, it is about finishing swimming the right way and how I want with performances I know that are left in me.

Matt: Take us through what was going through your mind when you finished the last race and the realisation that the Olympic dream this time around was over?

Rachel: What just happened? Feeling a bit lost and not wanting to accept the result that I just performed. Wanting a do over of the race.

Matt: How did you feel your training was going leading up to the event?

Rachel: Training was a new concept to comprehend but going well. I was stuck in a situation where I had to move coaches and programs 3 months out of Olympic Trials. I do not regret this decision at all as it had to be done, although had its consequences that I also had to deal with which did not create the ideal preparation.

Matt: What have you learnt from this experience?

Rachel: Life experience. The talent in my sport and particular event is incredible. Credit where credit is due. The best were the best on the day. That is life and sport.

Matt: You must be mentally tougher after the trials?

Rachel: Of course, I am a mentally tough individual in sport and life. The lessons I have learnt from swimming from such a young age and on a fast track scale are priceless.

Matt: Where to from here for you?

Rachel: Taking a much needed break to clear the head and gain motivation once again for the appropriate training/competitions. I aim to finish swimming off the right and best way I know how. With a smile and performances I am happy to stand by.

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