In the world of sports, where dedication and discipline reign supreme, it's easy to get caught up in the relentless pursuit of excellence. But what happens when life intervenes, forcing athletes to make difficult choices? This is the story of Amy Owenson, a talented swimmer from Galashiels, who chose to take a breather from her rigorous training regimen to pursue higher education. Her decision to attend the University of Stirling has not only allowed her to explore new horizons but has also provided her with a fresh perspective on her sporting career.
Amy's journey began at a young age, with early mornings and late nights dedicated to swimming. Her unwavering commitment to the sport was evident in her daily routine, which included six years of 5am alarms and two hours of swimming at Selkirk pool before heading to school. This was followed by evening swims and gym circuits, totaling around eight sessions a week, as well as swims for her Gala club. Her dedication paid off, as she became one of the East District's top swimmers, winning the 50m breaststroke title and taking bronze in the 100m at the Scottish Summer Meet in 2025.
However, Amy's decision to attend university was not without its challenges. She had to weigh up her future plans and choose between continuing her swimming career or taking a break. In her own words, "I had to weigh up what I did after school and going to university was something I really wanted to do." She ultimately chose to have a "bit of a breather," which meant pool training three times a week with the University swim team, a gym session, and extra swims by herself.
What makes Amy's story particularly fascinating is the way she has embraced the opportunity to explore new interests and make new friends. Her decision to attend university has allowed her to spread her wings outside her sporting cocoon, and she has found joy in activities that don't revolve around swimming timetables. As she puts it, "I’ve really enjoyed going to university, making new friends and doing things that don’t revolve around swimming timetables. I think I needed that."
Amy's decision to take a breather from her swimming career is not without its implications. It raises a deeper question about the balance between pursuing one's passions and exploring new opportunities. In my opinion, it's a reminder that athletes should not be afraid to take risks and explore new avenues, even if it means stepping away from their sport for a while. As she reflects on her journey, Amy acknowledges that swimming has been great for her in many ways, but it's not everything in life. She believes that it's important to acknowledge that and move forward with an open mind.
Looking ahead, Amy is considering a career in sport, but she is also open to other possibilities. She recognizes that the Commonwealth Games and Olympics may be out of reach for now, but she is eager to explore new avenues and discover what the future holds. Her story is a testament to the fact that athletes can achieve great things both on and off the field, and that taking a breather can be a valuable part of the journey. As she prepares to embark on a new chapter of her life, Amy is grateful for the friendships, discipline, and self-belief that her swimming career has instilled in her. She looks back on her sport fondly, but she is also excited to see what comes next.
