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Raise Your Game: How did you start to swim?

Jazz Carlin: My dad used to take me to the local swimming pool when I was younger. I began to get competitive with my dad and have little races against him. I decided to join a 'learn to swim' programme when I was five-years-old and then progressed through the squads before moving to Swansea when I was 16.

RYG: Your nickname in the pool is 'Pitbull.' Can you tell us a bit more about that?

JC: My coach called me Pitbull because he said that I've got that drive and determination and sometimes he has to pull me back. It's definitely a funny name to be called, but it's a nice compliment and it's always an honour when your coach gives you praise.

RYG: How easy is it for young women to be successful in sport?

JC: There are definitely more women getting involved in sport, however, I think there is still room for improvement. Everyone should get more involved in exercising, not just for the health benefits, but for the social side too. There are so many different aspects in your life where sport can help. Even if you only go to a class at a local pool, you'll feel the benefits.

RYG: Is education important to you?

JC: I definitely think it's important and both education and sport link really well together. I like to give education and sport the best that I can to see if I can succeed in both.

RYG: What have been the highlights of your career so far?

JC: To come away with my first senior international medal at the 2009 World Championships in Rome was such a boost for me. It gave me the belief that I can do it and that I can go further if I work even harder.

RYG: Swimming is an endurance event. How do you keep mentally strong for the challenge?

JC: There are so many different aspects to a race; tactical, physical and mental. It's going out there and doing what I normally do and treating it like any other competition. Even though it's a great honour, you have to keep calm and focus on the job in hand.

RYG: For any young people looking to take up swimming, what would your advice be?

JC: Some people are so talented and yet they don't even know it. There are so many different aspects to sport and how you can get involved. You might surprise yourself with what you can achieve, so give it go and see what you can do!