When thousands of spectators are laser-focused on your every move as prepare to dive into the pool at the Olympics, the mounting pressure must surely be overwhelming.
However, the talented swimmers on Team GB’s aquatics team all have their own unique ways of dealing with stress and race-day nerves, so they can stay on top form after months of training.
Oliver Morgan from Bishop's Castle and a University of Birmingham swimmer is still riding on the high of setting a new 100m backstroke British record in April, so he is trying to embrace all the exciting opportunities ahead, rather than cowering to the pressure of it all.
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Confidence is key for Morgan, and he’s sticking to the advice of trusting his training.
“Just be confident in everything you’ve prepared for,” said the 21-year-old. “I’ve been told to treat the Olympics like it is an ordinary competition.
“Having that downtime and finding little hobbies is also really important,” Morgan adds of managing the nerves.
“I have recently gotten into golf and also enjoy going out for food and playing on the Xbox with my housemates – these things really help take my mind off the stress of it all.”
Meanwhile a fan zone community day will take place in Bishop's Castle on Sunday, July 28th from 9am-9m at the town's community college.
Morgan's Games begin with the 100m backstroke heats at 10am on Sunday, July 28th
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