From representing Great Britain as a junior to making history as the Caribbean’s first openly gay international swimmer, Michael Gunning’s journey is one of resilience, pride, and transformation. After missing out on the Tokyo Olympics, Michael turned disappointment into purpose, taking on a leading role with Pride House for the Paris 2024 and LA 2028 Games.

In Drowning Prevention Week, we discuss the fact that 80% of Black children in England cannot swim, a statistic that not only endangers lives but also leads to underrepresentation in elite and masters swimming.

We explore why so few Black swimmers take part in masters swimming, and what it will take to change that, both in and out of the water.