Mitchell to race in seventh Pier to Pub

January 2, 2020 BY Klaus Nannestad

Phoebe Mitchell will be among the 5,000 swimmers to race in this year's Pier to Pub.

ONE of the world’s best Down syndrome swimmers will be among the 5,000 people taking part in this year’s Pier to Pub on January 11.

Phoebe Mitchell from Bellbrae has been named Top Female Swimmer at the Down Syndrome World Swimming Championships on three occasions and holds several world records.

Mitchell is currently the second highest ranked female swimmer in the world, behind Mexico’s Dunia Camacho.

Australia Down Syndrome Swimming Team coach John Beckworth wrote in Coaching Life that Mitchell’s determination sets her apart from the competition.

“She’s an amazing, driven athlete who wants to be the best in the world and will do everything she can.”

While her swimming has taken her to Portugal, Taiwan, Italy, Mexico and Canada, the Pier to Pub still has importance to Mitchell, as this will be the seventh times she has raced in the event.

Phoebe’s mother, Libby Mitchell, said the Pier to Pub was unique.

“She (Phoebe) loves the challenge. There are quite a few people that she has swum with at Geelong Swimming Club who she knows and can compete with.”

Phoebe trains five days a week with Geelong Swimming Club, except for when she is competing overseas.