‘Celebrate the little wins’: Walsh chases progress, not perfection
That support has helped her prepare for the global championships, where she wants to continue her progress – especially in the freestyle events, where her focus has been on developing her speed and endurance.
“The speed on the initial 50 is always gonna be there — that’s my fast-twitch, easy speed,” she said. “But the real struggle comes when I flip and when I’ve gotta bring it home.”
With that in mind, she’s made adjustments to her training, including added aerobic endurance and kick-focused work in practice. Another change includes increased attention to her kick and stroke counts – taking advantage of her natural gifts.
“I have these long arms — and what are they good for if I’m not using them?” she said with a laugh.
As she lines up in Singapore, Walsh will be alongside a familiar opponent and friend: Huske.
The duo have faced each other for most of their careers, from age-group competitions to NCAA meets and the Olympic final in Paris. It’s created a bond that transcends their roles in the pool.
“I think it’s cool because me and Torri definitely have a very different approach,” Walsh said. “But we’ve gotten to really understand each other in that way.”
Walsh says she knows that Huske prefers to keep to herself in the locker room, while she herself takes comfort and energy from little shows of encouragement, like a pre-race fist bump.
The 100m fly world record holder sees that bond continuing in the years to come, including in Singapore, and is relishing the opportunity.
“I’m going to appreciate swimming next to her,” said Walsh. “Because I know that we’re competing for the same reason, we’re striving for the same goal — and she’s going to support me and I’m going to support her.”
The last year has taught Walsh a lot, and she’s ready to put it on full display for the world to see.
She’s not chasing perfection anymore, just solid, steady progress.
“I need to take a step back and realise… to even [go 54] twice is a huge deal,” she said. “And it’s important to celebrate those little wins.”