Swimming for a lifetime of happiness

With multiple world records, numerous medals and five World Championships under his belt, Elanora Heights swimming champion Brendan Foley has been at the top of his game for well over a decade.

Recently presented with a Life Pass for Warringah Aquatic Centre by Mayor Michael Regan, 44-year-old Brendan says he was “astounded” to receive the honour. “I had no idea,” he said. “I swim for fitness and I compete for fun.”

Training competitively at Warringah Aquatic Centre since 2007, Brendan has represented Australia at the 2006, 2007, 2008, 2010 and 2012 World Down Syndrome Swimming Championships. He holds World Records in freestyle, butterfly and breaststroke, continues to train with the Warringah Masters and still regularly competes against able-bodied swimmers.

Senior Lifeguard Mark Scoberg has known Brendan for 16 years and has seen him go from a casual swimmer to an elite athlete. “Brendan is a champion athlete. I’m always amazed by his achievements. Although, with his mum and sister Sonia coaching and driving him so hard, it’s no wonder he has won so many medals,” Mark said.

In addition to his impressive swimming record, Brendan is a role model for all swimmers at our pool and through the community.

“Brendan is an inspiration to all of us,” says Warringah Aquatic Centre Manager, Julie Langdon. “He is here at the WAC swimming rain, hail or shine and always says hello!”

“His mum, Lyn has always been and continues to be here coaching and encouraging him. She is his greatest supporter,” she says.

Lyn Foley, who drives him to swimming training five mornings a week at 5am, is grateful for the opportunities swimming has given her determined and sociable son.

“Brendan loved to swim from the time he was a baby,” she said. “He swam throughout his childhood, but in his 20s there was an opportunity for him to become competitive and he took that opportunity and never looked back.”

“He is the most travelled person in the family,” Mrs Foley says. “It gives him something to spend his hard earned money on and keeps him fit, healthy and happy.”

When he isn’t training or competing, you can find Brendan working at Harris Farm Markets in Manly. He also loves watching history, science fiction and comedy DVDs at home and he has become a real history buff.

If you would like more information about joining Brendan’s Masters Swimming group at Warringah Aquatic Centre, give the centre a call today on 9451 8000.