Agathe Pauli in Paris

Supported by Myrtha Pools, Agathe Pauli competes “at home” with all the passion that characterizes her.

She stands out not only for her sporting ability, but also for her dedication and determination. We had the opportunity to chat with her about her journey, her inspirations, and her preparations for the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games.

Discover her story, her motivations, and what drives her to give her best in every competition.

What swimming disciplines do you excel in? How and when did you specialize in this discipline?

My specialty is the 400-meter freestyle. Five years ago, I noticed that I was getting more points in competition in this discipline than the other six in my category. Although this may change over time, this is currently the discipline in which I feel most comfortable.

Which swimmer has influenced you the most? Who do you draw inspiration from?

When I was younger, my swimming style was often compared to that of Laure Manaudou. So I started following her races, and I’ve been a great admirer of her ever since.

Do you have any superstitious habits before an event?

I don’t have any particular superstitious habits, but I like to concentrate while listening to music, which helps me get into my own bubble.

How did you manage high-pressure situations at competitions like Limoges and Châlons-sur-Saône? And how did you feel on June 19 when you found out you’d qualified?

In Châlons-sur-Saône, where I had to set the qualifying time, I was very stressed because I didn’t have many opportunities. I managed to calm down and concentrate a few minutes before the start, which enabled me to set up my race strategy and achieve the required time on the first attempt, thus relieving the pressure.

In Limoges, the stress eased as I had already achieved the qualifying time, which allowed me to enjoy the competition to the full. When I got the call on June 19 that I’d officially qualified, I was overjoyed.

Although I had expected it, since I had achieved the required time and there were enough places available, I was proud of the long road I had travelled and said to myself: “At last! The dream of the little 7-year-old girl I used to be can now come true!”

Are you already feeling the Paralympic spirit?

I’m living a unique experience: the atmosphere of the Games is incomparable to that of the international competitions I’ve known before. It’s a totally different universe and an unforgettable adventure.

Are you following a specific type of diet in the run-up to the big event?

I don’t have a specific diet. I eat according to my needs, of course in smaller quantities than the rest of the year, as I swim much less during the training period. So we avoid excesses during this week.

How do you prepare physically and mentally for the swimming events?

Physically, I’m reducing my swimming training and concentrating on stato-dynamic exercises in the gym. I have complete confidence in my coach, Régis Gautier, and my physical trainer, Christophe Keller. As for the mental aspect, I communicate regularly with my mental trainer, Guillaume Rivas, who has been with me throughout the season.

Where are you training in Paris at the moment?

For these few days before the competition, I’m training in the Myrtha Pools at the Paris La Défense Arena.

You take part in 3 swimming disciplines/events. Is there one that suits you best?

Yes, I’m taking part in three events, but my favorite will undoubtedly be the mixed 4×100-meter freestyle relay, scheduled for the last day!

Talking to Agathe, it’s clear that passion and perseverance are at the heart of her success. Her ability to turn stress into motivation and overcome challenges with grace and determination is a true inspiration to us at Myrtha and to everyone who reads her words. We wish her every success at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games and can’t wait to see what the future holds.