Swimmer Frazer Dow made remarkable progress in the competitive swimming scene in 2024, including achieving a Scottish Junior title and gold medal, and setting personal bests. We caught up with Frazer to reflect on his 2024 achievements, the challenges he’s faced, and his ambitions for the rest of this year.

 Reflecting on 2024, what were your most significant accomplishments in swimming?

My most significant accomplishments in swimming in 2024 would be winning the Junior title at the Scottish Open Swimming Championships in Edinburgh, winning gold at the Scottish Age Group Championships, and competing in Sheffield at the British Summer Championships.

Have you set any new personal bests over the past year?

I have set lots of personal bests in the last year. My biggest improvement has been in my weaker strokes, which has really helped my Individual Medley.

Have there been any changes or additions to your training regimen since we last spoke that have contributed to your performance?

I now swim an extra session on Friday nights for an hour and a half bringing me up to seven sessions a week and sometimes a session in Stirling’s 50m pool on Saturday nights.

Have you faced any setbacks or challenges in the last year that you’ve had to overcome?

I have had minor setbacks, such as small injuries and performing below expectations at a competition I had been training for, but no major challenges.

You aimed to compete in the British Summer Championships in Sheffield last year. Were you able to participate, and how did you do?

I successfully qualified for and competed in the British Summer Championships in Sheffield for the 50m, 100m and 200m Breaststroke. I set a PB in the 50m Breaststroke and just missed out on a spot in the 200m final by a tenth of a second, but it was a brilliant experience.

What are your primary goals and aspirations for 2025, both in swimming and personal development?

My swimming goals for 2025 are to set as many personal bests as possible and qualify for the British Summer Championships again. Outside of swimming, I’m focusing on doing more revision as I prepare for my exams.

How has your involvement with Live Active’s Emerging Athlete Programme continued to support your growth as an athlete?

Live Active’s Emerging Athlete Programme has been key to my growth as an athlete. It has given me access to great coaching and personalised training. The program has helped me improve my skills, which has really boosted my confidence and performance.

Are there any upcoming competitions or events you're particularly excited about in 2025, and what are your goals for competing in them?

I’m really excited about the Scottish National Age Groups, the Scottish Open Championships, and the British Summer Championships in 2025. These are key competitions for me, and my goals include achieving personal bests, making finals, and potentially medalling.