British swimming may have been criticised for ‘only’ winning three medals at the London Olympics but it is performing well in encouraging the next generation of swimmers and stars of all the aquatic disciplines.
Stars including Rebecca Adlington, Kerri-Anne Payne and members of the Diving, Water polo and Synchronised Swimming team have begun a tour of the country, sponsored by main supporter British Gas to meet young swimmers and hold lessons at five venues.  Members of the Paralympic swim team will join for the last two events.
“London 2012 was an amazing experience with huge crowds, and if we as Olympians can inspire more children to get in the pool as part of the legacy of the Games that will be incredible,” said Adlington.
“We are delighted that athletes from across our sport are going to be part of this tour, added Jon Glenn, Head of Youth and Community for British swimming. “Their inspirational stories will help us to achieve our Olympic and Paralympics legacy to increase participation.”
Is it not possible that a similar programme of meeting with Ireland’s Boxing, Swimming or Athletics stars could yet be organised, perhaps with the support of one of the Olympic Partners or a company that is new to sporting sponsorship but wants to capitalise on the Olympic feel good factor?
It would not require all of the athletes to participate at all of the venues but would extend the value of the games as a driver of participation and give athletes something to look forward to in the inevitable lull after the games.
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