Australind open water swimmer Kyle Lee “excited” about qualification for 2024 Paris Olympics

Australind open water swimmer Kyle Lee is “excited” to be competing at this year’s Paris Olympics after qualifying earlier this year.

Lee booked his place in July’s games after finishing ninth in the men’s 10km open water final at the World Aquatics Championships in Doha in early February.

He spoke at the South West Academy of Sport awards night last month as part of a three-person panel including surfer Bronte Macaulay and former world-class triathlete Ryan Bailie.

Lee said his Olympic qualification were hard to comprehend but he was very excited about the result.

“I have moments like seeing my parents — they’ve been there since the beginning — and seeing them when I got back from the airport was something special,” he said.

“I remember when I was in SWAS dreaming about becoming an Olympian. It was always a dream and at times, it didn’t feel like it’d be possible.”

While in Doha, Lee was part of Australia’s first ever open water relay world title, claiming the gold medal. He said it was a special experience to share with his team.

“I’ve been fortunate enough to be a part of that team for the last two years and I think as a group, we’ve really grown together,” Lee said.

“I was the last and I got to see my teammates swim absolutely amazingly, and I think that inspired me to give it my all.”

Lee is going to be busy in the lead up to Paris, swimming nine to 10 times a week alongside two gym sessions.

As for expectations once he is at the Olympics, he is not going in expecting a certain placing in his races.

“When you’re in the race, so much can happen and if you have a preconceived outcome, it can really rattle you mentally,” Lee said.

“I really try to get to the start line and make the best decision as I can as I go.”

When asked what advice he had for upcoming athletes, Lee noted perseverance was key.

“It’s going to be a tough journey, but as long as you just keep your head down and keep working eventually you’ll get there,” he said.