
About this episode
In this episode of the Masters Swimming Podcast, mother and daughter duo, Heidi and Vivien Bell-West, share their experiences along with their family legacy connected to Captain Matthew Webb, the first person to swim the English Channel. Preferring to sprint rather than swim long distances, Heidi has won global medals and set new national records this year in the 55-59 category.
Vivien, a mum of nine children, relies on 80 years’ experience of participation and coaching, and regular gardening, to keep her speed up.
This delightful conversation also covers early years swimming in Jamacia, being a swim-mad family and training in Australia for several months of the year. Heidi and Vivien will compete together at the National Short Course Championships and offer valuable advice for those considering entering the world of masters swimming. Presented by Helen Gorman.
Visit Allen’s of Kingsbury to update your swimsuits and gear: https://www.allensswimwear.co.uk Use discount code MastersPod for 10% discount – code valid until 14/11/25 on full priced items.
Get every episode summarized
Each time Freestyle Media publishes, we email you a written briefing from the transcript — the topics, who appeared, and any specific claims, with the ad reads skipped.
Email me new episodesFree for 3 shows. No card needed.
Hosts & guests
No transcript yet
This episode has not been transcribed. Request it and it moves to the front of the queue.
More episodes
More from Freestyle Media

#202: Front End, Back End: Training the Whole Race
Freestyle Media

#201: European Gold: Katie Rees & Ben Winter on Their Šamorín Experience
Freestyle Media

#200: Swimming for Life: Kelly Palace on Longevity & Performance
Freestyle Media

#199: What’s on the Menu? The Perfect Pre-Race Meal with Robbie Blackman
Freestyle Media