2024 was a landmark year for swimmer Katherine Renfrew, filled with major milestones and valuable learning experiences. From qualifying for the Junior final at the Aquatics GB Swimming Championships to representing Scotland at a competition in Switzerland, Katherine’s progress in the pool has been impressive. Now, with key competitions already on the calendar for 2025, she’s setting her sights on new goals and continuing to build on the strong foundation she’s laid.

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

My most significant accomplishments were qualifying for the Junior final in the 100m butterfly at the Aquatics GB Swimming Championships 2024 (Olympic Trials), winning two Scottish National Age Group titles in the 100m and 200m freestyle, and placing 4th in the 100m butterfly at the Aquatics GB Summer Championships. In early 2025 I also had the opportunity to compete with the Scottish National Junior team at the International Challenge De Genève in Switzerland which was a great learning experience.

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

I have set lots of personal bests in the past year, but my best improvements have been in freestyle and butterfly.

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

I now train an additional session on a Friday. This is beneficial as any extra pool time helps, and the session focuses more on the technical aspects of my stroke which allows for more gains to be made.

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

I am continuing to deal with my wrist injury which can be challenging at times, but I just have to learn to cope with it. Managing school and swimming is always a challenge but it’s crucial to manage your time wisely.

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

I was pretty happy with my results at the Summer Championships last year as I was able to achieve a 4th (100m fly) and two 5ths (100m and 200m freestyle), but I was a bit disappointed to miss out on a medal. These benchmark me against all swimmers in my age group in Britain.

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

My main goals for 2025 are to achieve Junior finals at the Aquatics GB Swimming Championships held in London in April, to do as well as possible at the Aquatics GB Next Gen Championships (formerly Summer Championships) and to continue to achieve PBs. I will also be making the transition to the Edinburgh University Performance Swim Team and hope to be able to adapt to living away from home and studying for my degree whilst continuing my swimming journey.

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

The Emerging Athlete Programme has allowed me the opportunity to receive support with strength and conditioning which allows me to make gains in the pool. Out of the pool, the programme gives me the opportunity develop as an athlete and learn about what makes athletes better through courses and online learning.

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

My main competitions coming up so far this year are the Aquatics GB Swimming Championships in April and the Aquatics GB Next Gen Championships in July. I aim to perform as well as possible at both events and achieve personal bests.