Sport for Women

Top 100 Sportswomen Nomination

I nominate Melissa because her continuous contribution to the sport of open water swimming and unrelenting passion for growing the sport in Australia.

- Scott

Melissa Gorman on Twitter

Melissa Gorman in the News

Q & A

Greatest sporting achievement:
 Winning the world championship for the 5km Open Water in 2009

Greatest achievement off the field: 
Graduating from University with a degree in Behavioural Science (Psychology) with distinction whilst competing at an elite level in my sport.

Who is your sporting heroine? Susie O’Neill – I loved watching her compete when I was younger and admired her sweet persona and great sportsmanship.

How many hours per week to you train/exercise? I train approximately 30 hours a week, plus in summer I like to compete in as many ocean swims as I can on the weekends.

What kind of diet or nutrition plan are you on? I don’t follow a strict diet as such, but I know that my body needs the right fuels to be able to compete at my best. I generally follow a healthy eating plan – lots of fruit and veggies and plenty of water, but I believe in everything in moderation. I’m not one to say no to a plate of beef ribs and chips. You have to be able to indulge every now and then.

What do you love about your sport? I love that every Open Water Swimming race is different. You really have to expect the unexpected and be able to adapt to numerous conditions. It’s always the same girls, each with a desire to win, yet every race has its differences and you get to experience so many different environments around the world. I also love that whilst everyone is super competitive in the water, outside, everyone is friends. It’s such a great atmosphere.

If you could change something about your sport, what would it be? I would love for open water swimmers to get more recognition and TV coverage. The Olympic 10km Swim lasts for approximately 2 hours and will come down to a sprint finish, often with only tenths of a second separating the place getters. Both the men’s and women’s races will be exciting, its just a shame open water swimming doesn’t get as big a following in Australia as it does in other countries around the world.

What motivates you? The desire to win Olympic Gold, But most importantly, I want to be the best I can possibly be. I love the feeling of satisfaction I get after completing a challenging session or after I win a race.

Do you have a profession outside of your sport? I have completed a degree in Behavioural Science (Psychology) but at the moment I am predominantly focusing on my swimming and I help my mum to care for my 8 foster brothers and sisters, 4 of which have numerous disabilities. It gives me the warmest feeling inside just to see them happy and enjoying life to the fullest.

Three words that describe you: Positive, tough and caring

If I wanted to play your sport, what advice would you give me? Always believe in yourself. Open Water swimming is something that you get better at with experience. The more time you can spend in the ocean, competing in races and fine tuning your skills, the better you will be. But most of all enjoy it. Soak up the amazing atmosphere that comes with ocean swimming and Open Water swimming.

Melissa Gorman Supports Sport for Women Day

"Sport for Women Day is a fantastic initiative.

"For me, sport has been such an important part of my life. Not only have I made lifelong friends and had the opportunity to travel the world, but I’ve gained so many important life skills all while staying fit and healthy.

"I believe all women of all ages should have the opportunity to be involved in sport, no matter how active you are. Not only is sport great for the mind and body, it’s fun!"

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