The road to athletic greatness is rarely straightforward, and sometimes it takes an unexpected turn. This is the story of Amy Owenson, a talented swimmer from Galashiels, who made a bold decision to prioritize her education over her sport.
At 19, Amy is embracing the experience of university life at the University of Stirling, where she studies sport and exercise science. Her journey began at the tender age of 8 when she joined the Gala Swimming Club and the Borders Elite Swim Team (BEST) at 12. For six years, she endured the rigors of early morning practices, often starting her day at 5 am with two hours of swimming in Selkirk pool, followed by evening sessions and gym circuits, totaling around eight sessions weekly.
Her dedication paid off, as she became one of the East District's top swimmers, culminating in her 2025 Scottish Summer Meet triumphs. However, Amy's perspective shifted when she had to choose between continuing her swimming career or pursuing higher education.
She explains, 'I had to weigh up what I did after school, and university was something I really wanted to do.' Her decision to take a breather and enjoy university life has been a refreshing change. While she still trains with the University swim team three times a week, attends gym sessions, and participates in extra solo swims, the intensity and pressure of her previous routine have lessened.
Amy's new flatmates, interestingly, are not swimmers, marking a significant shift from her sporting cocoon. Her support system includes the Borders' Athlete Support Programme and sports psychologist Brad Fullarton, who helped her gain a broader perspective.
Her family's athletic background, including her mother's hockey prowess and father's football leadership, has instilled a love for sports in Amy and her brother Alex. However, Amy emphasizes the importance of enjoyment in sports, stating, 'Swimming has been great for me in so many ways, but it’s not everything in life.'
Looking ahead, Amy is contemplating a career in sports, but she acknowledges that the Commonwealth Games and Olympics may be beyond her reach. Nonetheless, she is excited about the future, reflecting fondly on her swimming journey while eagerly anticipating the next chapter of her life.
