Kirsty Coventry

“It is much harder to retain your position at the top than to get to the top.”

“There are younger, stronger swimmers coming up and they are hungry. I can't influence what they do, I only know what I can do and I know how greedy I am to defend my title.”

“I take any opportunity I can to raise our country's flag really high and get some shining positive light on things over there.”

“People have to remain positive and believe in those dreams. It's really important.”

“Everyone at home is so supportive. People recognise me, say how proud they are of me. It's awesome to hear, it's amazing to know I can touch so many people in a positive way.”

“In athletics, older runners tend to go for longer races, but it's the opposite in swimming because your body can't handle the endurance.”

“I have always stayed out of politics, I don't believe it would be appropriate to talk about it.”

“Everyone there including President Mugabe knows something needs to change because so many people are hurting.”