Canadian Olympic medallist Ryan Cochrane paid a visit to the Campbell River Killer Whales swim club last weekend.
Cochrane was in town to put on a clinic for the young aspiring swimmers Saturday afternoon at Strathcona Gardens.
Cochrane gave out advice and shared proper race techniques with the swimmers who swam laps under the watchful eye of Cochrane.
Jim Campbell, head coach of the Killer Whales program, said having Cochrane – who he said has been one of Canada’s “most consistent” swimmers – come and teach his swimmers was invaluable.
“It’s great to have him come in and share his experience,” said Campbell, adding that Cochrane was able to impart to the swimmers what it takes to get the Olympics.
Cochrane has been representing Canada at the Olympic level since 2008 when he set a new Canadian Olympic record in the 400-metres during the Beijing Summer Games.
Cochrane returned to the Olympic stage when he suited up for Canada at the 2012 London Games where he was joined by
a former Cortes Islander – Alec Page – who grew up swimming with the Campbell River Killer Whales.
Whether there’s another Page among the group of 31 swimmers who suited up for Saturday’s clinic with Cochrane remains to be seen.
Campbell River’s event was the last stop for Cochrane on his cross Canada Swimming Smart tour.
Kristen Douglas/Campbell River Mirror
Ryan Cochrane gives pointers to the Campbell River Killer Whales swimmers.