Madonna Blyth
Hockeyroos #12
(342 Caps, 70 Goals)
Ambassador Profile
Q. Why did you decide to sign on as an ambassador of the Busselton Jetty Swim again?
A. After being involved last year as an ambassador for the BJS I am really excited to again be a part of the action. The conditions last year brought out the best in the swimmers, highlighting their determination and perseverance despite terrible conditions to swim in. To see so many members of the community, both young and old, complete something so difficult in such a supportive environment is a major drawcard for me.
Q. How will you be getting involved as ambassador this year?
A. This year I am looking to be involved in a few different aspects of the swim weekend. I particularly enjoy being down on the beach when the swimmers make it back to shore. The energy and inspiration that is felt at the finish line after the swimmers accomplish something so difficult is hard to beat. I also look forward to the kids swim and getting them pumped up for their race.
Q. In your eyes, what makes the Busselton Jetty Swim so special?
A. The BJS is such a great event as it embraces such a wide mix of the community. You can see young kids participating in their swim, older generations completing it and a range of elite athletes through to amateurs. All of the swimmers finish with a visible sense of pride and satisfaction those kinds of emotions are infectious!
Q. What do you admire about the people that tackle the Busselton Jetty Swim?
A. Last year the swimmers faced some terrible weather and surf conditions and yet despite this the majority finished with a smile on their face. The competitors didn’t back away from the challenges they faced and this was something you could see right from the first swimmer home until the last.
Q. What did you enjoy most about the event last year as ambassador of the Busselton Jetty Swim?
A. There were some great moments during the Busselton Jetty Swim last year but for me the best place to be was on the sand welcoming the swimmers back on to dry land. It is difficult to explain the feeling I had watching so many people achieve one of their dreams. I was in awe.
Q. What did you enjoy most about the South West last year as ambassador of the Busselton Jetty Swim?
A. Definitely the community support and engagement around the swim. It is a beautiful part of the world but for me the way people encouraged their fellow swimmers, came out to watch or volunteered their time says a lot about the people in that community.
Q. Has the Busselton Jetty Swim inspired you to continue/take up swimming?
A. I would like to say yes but I am definitely a land animal! It motivated me to be involved again and to challenge myself in other areas but I am happy to do that from shore!
Q. Do you have any advice for the BJS swimmers?
A. This is a huge challenge but the reward will be worth the effort. Accept there will be moments that are difficult and that you may feel nervous, stressed or overwhelmed. Believe that you are capable of great things despite the obstacles.