Barry Smith

Swim England Senior Coach Certificate (Level 3)

Before I left school at 14 years old I was the School's swimming and High board diving Champion for 3 years. I started teaching and coaching age groups in 1985 taking my squads to National and GB level. In 1992 I became the Black Lion Swimmer and Masters Coach, Competing at National/GB/ World Championships in 1996.

For 10 years I had my own "One to One" Team Baz sessions held at Hoo Swimming Pool, these were held under the banner of Medway Council. The athletes that attended came from every aspect of swimming disciplines: synchro, water polo, extreme athletes, ironman, and pentathletes. I also coached disabled competitive swimmers who went on to compete at National, GB and World Championships. One of the girls that I coached in her formative years competed in the 2025 Olympic Games.

In 2017 I was asked if I would like to coach the MedwayTri age groups and Masters. During my time at MedwayTri I have written many articles on all aspects of how to improve their Triathlon journey, culminating in asking 7 of my squad "WHY" do you put yourself through such a demanding sport? 

The science of age-related triathletes said that after the age of 34 years old there is an accelerated decline of 25%. Well, you can throw away that book as my athletes aged from 34 to 64 years of age are still attaining personal best times and reaching podium positions.  

In 2019 I went to Malaysia to Coach with Dean Ratcliffe, we held two 2-day Ironman swim camps, one in Ipoh and one in Penang, we then travelled to Langkawi Island to meet up with those that we coached for the Ironman competition. 

The one thing that brought home to me as "WHAT" triathlon is all about was the way that every athlete that competed that day was cheered and clapped to the finish line even though it was past midnight for some. 

The words "WE" Triathletes are family is very true and that is why MedwayTri is such a fantastic club.