Alex Cohoon was a standout performer at the recent Speedo Aquatics GB Swimming Championships, where he secured a place at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games with a personal best time of 48.20 seconds in the 100m freestyle final. The 21-year-old from Gloucestershire will be joining the likes of Matt Richards, Duncan Scott, and Tom Dean in the pursuit of 4x100m freestyle relay gold at the prestigious event.
After his impressive showing at the trials, Cohoon took some time away with his family in Spain to process his unexpected success. He described the trials as the toughest mental challenge he had ever faced and emphasized the importance of stepping back and taking a break. The time spent in Spain allowed him to relax and recharge before diving back into training for the upcoming Olympic Games.
As a recipient of funding from UK Sport’s National Lottery-funded World Class Programme, Cohoon has access to top-notch training facilities, coaching, and medical support, all essential for his journey towards Paris 2024. His close bond with his family has been a source of comfort and inspiration throughout his sporting career, with his older brother, Tom, leading the way in both swimming and rugby.
While Cohoon initially followed in his brother’s footsteps by joining the Gloucester Rugby academy, he eventually chose to focus solely on swimming while pursuing a degree in sports and exercise science at Loughborough University. Despite his success in the pool, the competitive spirit between the brothers still remains, with Cohoon constantly striving to surpass his brother’s achievements.
Having earned his first GB call-up in 2023, Cohoon has already made a name for himself on the international swimming scene with impressive performances at the European U23 Swimming Championships and the European Short Course Championships. His recent record-setting swim in the 4x50m freestyle relay further solidified his status as a rising star in British swimming.
Looking ahead to the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, Cohoon is focused on the task at hand and is determined to continue pushing himself to new heights. With the support of National Lottery players, who contribute over £30 million a week to funding sports initiatives at all levels, Cohoon and his fellow athletes are able to pursue their dreams and represent their country on the world stage.
In conclusion, Alex Cohoon’s journey to the Paris 2024 Olympic Games is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and the unwavering support of his family and funding organizations. As he prepares to take on the world’s best swimmers in pursuit of Olympic glory, Cohoon remains committed to pushing himself to new limits and making his family proud. With the backing of the National Lottery and the British swimming community behind him, Cohoon is poised to achieve great things in the pool and beyond.
