A 95-year-old resident of south London has achieved remarkable success by breaking five world records in her age group for swimming, further enhancing her impressive legacy in the sport.
Jane Asher’s recent accomplishments, which occurred in March, add to her extensive collection of over 100 Masters swimming records accumulated throughout her career.
„Swimming just makes you feel well and keeps you healthy,“ Asher stated.
Asher is not only a member of the International Swimming Hall of Fame but also a recipient of the British Empire Medal, recognizing her commitment to swimming.
Reflecting on her experiences, she remarked,
„After you’ve had a swim, you get out and you just feel, ‘oh, I can go anywhere.’“
Asher, who recently celebrated her 95th birthday, is already preparing for her next competition, aiming for another world record in Budapest.
She emphasized the importance of pacing during her swims, saying,
„I’m watching what the others are doing because I never go too fast. Pacing is the most important, especially in these long swims.“
Originally hailing from Zambia, Asher’s swimming journey has taken her around the globe, including the United States, New Zealand, Australia, Italy, France, and Spain.
She set her first Masters record, which is designated for swimmers aged 25 and older, in 1986, and by the time she turned 80, she had amassed a total of 100 records.
Asher remains focused on her future goals, expressing gratitude for the support she has received throughout her journey.
„I didn’t realize that they were proud,“ she shared. „I’m pleased. I feel grateful. I’m so lucky. I’ve had the right parents, I’ve had the opportunities. I’ve got the friends who help. That’s absolutely crucial. It’s friends that make the whole thing. That’s what life’s about, isn’t it?“
Bildquelle: Tommes Frites auf Pexels
