Kierra Smith Forgets Mom’s Name On Final 50 En Route to 200 Breast Title, Video Interview

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GREENSBORO- Golden Gopher Kierra Smith’s best time of 59.0 in the 100 breast gave her a confidence boost heading into her title-nabbing 200 breaststroke (2:04.56). Smith’s club coach’s advice for the 200 breast? “On the last 50 you’re supposed to forget your mom’s name.” As she shot toward the finish in the 200, she was a woman possessed by speed. Smith said her final 50 is typically strong because she finally feels “settled in” to her stroke.

The Minnesota junior talks to Swimming World about her expectations leading into NCAAs, her preparations going into Canadian World Trials on April 1, and what she focuses on technically during the 200 breast.

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Richard Weinberger

9 years ago

She didn’t forget her Mom’s name, she was told by her coach to work so hard that she would forget her Mom’s name… Title is misleading and promotes the stereotype that swimmers are stupid, but in fact in a constant state of exhaustion… Awesome swim Kierra!

Jim Schuneman

9 years ago

I know that I have forgotten many things during the last 50 of the 200 breaststroke….:(