Swim Wales, in partnership with Disability Sport Wales and supported by Aquatics GB and ParalympicsGB, held an inspiring Para Swimming Talent ID Session on Friday 20th February 2026 at the Wales National Pool.
The event provided participants with a unique opportunity to meet and learn from high-performance para athletes first-hand, offering both practical experience in the water and invaluable insight into the Paralympic pathway.
The two-hour session welcomed individuals with an eligible disability who wanted to explore swimming as a sport. Attendees represented a wide range of ages and impairments, with some currently training within swim clubs and others exploring different sports to discover which environment best suits their aspirations and abilities. The afternoon was designed to inspire and inform, creating an inclusive and supportive setting for athletes and families alike.
Participants began with an hour-long pool session led and mentored by Paralympic gold medallist Ellie Challis and Wales Commonwealth para swimmer Becky Lewis. The session was split into groups to best match age and experience, with swimmers receiving tailored guidance and invaluable advice in a relaxed and supportive environment.
The afternoon continued with an engaging and insightful panel discussion featuring Becky Lewis and Paralympians Grace Harvey, Bruce Dee, Brock Whiston and Ellie Challis. Nathan Stephens, Paralympian and now Head of Performance Development at DSW also joined the discussion
Paralymic Gold Medallist, Ellie Challis, shared:
“I was excited to be a part of the day. I learnt to swim for safety when I was young and have had so many opportunities come from swimming, including winning Paralympic Gold. I enjoyed sharing my story with the participants and helping them enjoy being in the pool.”
During the hour-long panel, attendees, including parents and guardians, were given an inside look at the journey to Paralympic success. The speakers shared honest reflections on their careers, from early beginnings and classification to overcoming setbacks, managing training demands and developing the mindset required to perform at the highest level. The discussion also provided clarity around the performance pathway and the support available within Wales and across Great Britain.
Amy Brumby, Pathway & Sport Development Manager shared:
“Talent ID sessions give young athletes and their families the chance to see what is possible and to ask questions. It was inspiring to see swimmers of all ages and experiences in the water, learning directly from athletes who have progressed through the system and reached the very top of the sport.”
The event reinforced a shared commitment to identifying and nurturing the next generation of Paralympic talent, ensuring that aspiring athletes across Wales have access to opportunity, guidance and inspiration as they begin or continue their sporting journey.
