Higher Education student Alex Cohoon is set to make his Olympic debut this year as he was announced as part of the 33-strong swimming team heading to Paris as part of Team GB.
We sat down with Alex to talk about his journey to Paris and how the College has supported his career so far.
Having grown up as an academy rugby player in Gloucestershire, Alex began focussing his efforts on his swimming career as a teenager.
“I won gold in the 50 metres freestyle at the English Nationals when I was 17, and knew then it was the right decision for me.” Says Alex, who is studying for BSc (Hons) in Sport and Exercise Therapy at Loughborough College.
“Loughborough speaks for itself,” Alex continued, “In terms of facilities and the sporting legacy of the town, I knew I wanted to be a part of it.”
As one of eight Loughborough College learners hitting the pool in France as part of Team GB, Alex credits the support and flexibility offered by his lecturers that has made balancing his studies and training so manageable. “It’s great that I can timetable and plan with the College around my training commitments. Everyone here has always been so accommodating and supportive.”
With the games now less than two months away, Alex has his sights set on Olympic victory in both the 50m and 100m freestyle. “With the Olympics coming up, the College have been really understanding. I’ve been able to split my year, allowing me the time and energy I need to focus.”
Team GB set off for Paris next month, with Alex’s first race taking place at the iconic Paris La Defence arena on Saturday 27 July.