Lakeville swimmer Regan Smith turns pro in preparation for 2024 Olympics
In preparation for the 2024 Olympics, Lakeville swimmer Regan Smith is turning pro. She intends to train full time in Arizona with Bob Bowman, the former coach of Michael Phelps.
Smith, a world record-holder with four World Championship gold medals and three Olympic medals, announced her decision via her agent, Erika Wright.
“After a tremendous amount of reflection and soul-searching, I have chosen to pursue my competitive swimming goals as a professional athlete. After spending a substantial part of the last two years on my mental game, it’s time to focus on increasing my training intensity. I’m entirely confident that Bob’s leadership and training will have me exactly where I want to be for Paris 2024,” Smith said in a statement. “I believe that, in the long run, this is the best way for me to continue to develop as an athlete. At this time, I am postponing my college degree to maximize my athletic competitive window and could not be more excited for this journey.”
In a statement, Bowman called Smith a “special athlete,” adding she “has a clear picture of where she wants to go and how to get there.” Previously, Smith trained with coach Mike Parratto with the Riptide Swim Team in Apple Valley.
Smith also announced she has signed a deal with Speedo.
In her one year at Stanford, Smith won an individual NCAA title in the 200-yard backstroke. In a statement, Smith’s father, Paul, offered his support for the 20-year-old daughter’s decision.
“Regan has always had a remarkably mature connection to her swimming. At every step, she has inherently understood what she needs in order to meet her definition of success,” Paul said. “I trust her instincts on this and support her 100 percent. It’ll be fun to watch.”
