Patricia Robinson – Celebrating 30 Years
Patricia Robinson has been a dedicated member of the Masters swimming community for 30 years. From beginning as a founding member of the Virginia Masters Club to competing internationally, Patricia’s passion for swimming and volunteering has made a lasting impact. Thank you Trish, for sharing your inspiring journey and your many contributions to the sport.
Early Involvement with Swimming
When Trish’s children were learning to swim, the coach suggested that the parents also learn to swim. This led to the establishment of the Virginia Masters Club in 1994, affiliating with AUSSI (now MSQ). Trish has proudly been an MSQ member for 30 years.
Love for Swimming
Volunteering and swimming go hand in hand for Patricia. Serving as the Branch Minutes Secretary for around 10 years and contributing to numerous Branch events, she has found profound camaraderie, health, and fitness within the Masters swimming community. The swim meets of the past, filled with social interactions and memorable after-meet fancy dress parties and dances, have fostered a lasting connection and enthusiasm for the sport.
Most Memorable Swimming Moments
Competing at the World Masters Games in Brisbane in 1994 and the FINA World Masters Meet in San Francisco, USA, in 2006 are standout memories for Trish.
Favourite Events
The Individual Medley (IM) events hold a special place for Trish, with the 400m IM being a past favourite, now replaced by the 200m and 100m IM events. Freestyle distance swims are also enjoyed, despite feeling too slow for shorter distances.
Current Training Routine
Currently, Trish swims once a week at Nudgee College pool, with plans to increase this frequency as the weather warms up.
Motivation and Inspiration
Patricia finds inspiration from elite and age-group swimmers competing in national and international events.
Overcoming Setbacks
Facing the challenges of aging and managing Fibromyalgia, an autoimmune disorder affecting muscle function, has not deterred Trish. Despite always being in the last heat at carnivals, her perseverance and positive attitude shine through.
Personal Interests
Trish is passionate about horses, although riding is now less frequent due to time constraints. Her happy place is on the back of a horse.
Upcoming Events
Trish is looking forward to participating in the Whitehaven Open Water Swim in October and the Pan Pacific Masters Games in November.
Family
Trish is a proud parent of seven children and grandparent to nine grandchildren.
Career
After retiring from a full-time career as a Drafter in 2013, Trish needed to fund travel, which led her to complete an ASCTA course and become a swim teacher. She teaches at schools during the summer months and currently works as a relief teacher aide.
Other Interests
Trish enjoys open water swimming and has participated in many Swim Treks overseas, with favorites being Moorea in Tahiti and the Greek Islands. She also enjoys training at the gym and participating in distance walking events, including Park Run every Saturday morning. The upcoming City to Surf in Sydney is an annual event on her calendar. She likes to combine travel and holidays, with riding treks, and swimming or running events included in her plans.
Philosophy on Life
Patricia lives by the philosophy, “I do what others don’t, so as I age I can do what others can’t.”
Encouragement for Prospective Masters Swimmers
Trish encourages everyone to give it a go, highlighting the benefits of fitness, fun, and motivation to train. The friendships made are considered the best benefit of all. See you at the next swim meet!
