大象传媒

Kathryn was taught how to swim by her dad at the age of just six years old. With her dedication and enthusiasm to training she has gone on to take part in competitions on a local and national level.

Kathryn swims at least seven times a week

The 13-year-old remembers: "When I was nine, my first big achievement was becoming top girl at Northumberland and Durham County Championships.

"When I was 11 I went to the nationals and came first in the 100m freestyle and when I was 12 I won the 200m freestyle."

More recently Kathryn came third in the girls 13-years 100m freestyle competing against swimmers from all over the country.

Target squad

Things took a turn for young Kathryn in 2007 when she received a letter that let her know her fantastic results had not gone unnoticed.

"I got a letter from British Swimming late last year saying that I was on the 2012 target squad for the London Olympics. I was quite pleased because it's quite big!"

Kathryn warms up for her race

Even though Kathryn has just changed schools, she says that the intense training doesn't affect her schoolwork but that may be because she gets up at the crack of dawn at 5.30am.

"I go training seven times a week," said Kathryn, "In fact I've got to do eight times a week this year."

Making a splash in Sunderland

The Sunderland Aquatic Centre has been shortlisted in the Best Sports Project category of the National Lottery Awards and Kathryn has taken full advantage of the new facilities since it opened.

"I've been with Sunderland Swimming Club for nearly a year. I enjoy coming here everyday as before we came here we were going to four pools so it was quite difficult, but it's nice coming to one place and it's a nice place to be in."

Watch the video to see if Kathryn can beat Matt

Up for the challenge

大象传媒 Sport's Matt Newsum (who is twice Kathryn's age) took up the challenge for a 1 x 50m race against Kathryn at the Aquatic Centre. Watch the full interview with Kathryn and race by clicking the link below: