Record-Breaking Para Swimmer Qualifies for National Championships

Performance sport scholar Corey Hare has delivered an outstanding season in the pool, highlighted by standout performances at the BUCS Long Course Championships 2026 and Suffolk County Championships.

Now, he’s taking the next step, having qualified in the 200m Individual Medley for the Aquatics GB Swimming Championships 2026 at the London Aquatics Centre this April.

Introducing … Corey Hare

This season’s breakthrough race

At the BUCS Long Course Championships in Sheffield, Corey delivered a performance that showcased composure and class, swimming a lifetime best and breaking the S14 100m backstroke record, before going even faster in the final … to break it again.

“I tried to stay calm and focus on myself. As a neurodivergent athlete, I can sometimes find big competition environments overwhelming, but in that moment, I felt really in control and confident. That race meant so much to me, not just because of the times or records, but because it showed me what I’m capable of. It was a reminder that the way I think and approach things is a strength. I can perform at my best when it matters most.”

Performance through understanding

Studying Sport Performance & Coaching has played a defining role in Corey’s development as a student-athlete, not just in how he trains, but in how he understands performance.

Through modules like Introduction to Coaching, he’s been able to build clarity and purpose into his training, something that has been particularly important in supporting his approach as a neurodivergent athlete.

“It’s helped me understand not just what I’m doing, but why. That’s really important for me, as I like having a clear structure and purpose.” 

That alignment between course content and learning style has allowed Corey to move beyond simply completing sessions, developing a more intentional and performance-focused approach to training.

“Performance Analysis is probably the area I connect with the most. As a neurodivergent athlete, I find that level of detail and structure really helpful.”

By analysing races, breaking down splits, and focusing on targeted improvements, Corey has been able to turn attention to detail into measurable performance gains in the pool, with confidence and self-awareness.

“It’s not just about training hard anymore, it’s about understanding what works best for me. The way I think helps me improve and stay focused on what matters. I bring a strong work ethic, a willingness to learn, and a mindset that’s always looking to improve.”

An environment built for performance … and community

As part of the university’s performance sport programme, Corey has benefitted from access to a wide range of support designed to help student-athletes perform at their best and balance the demands of sport and study:

• Weekly strength & conditioning support
• Academic flexibility around competition
• Dedicated athlete services
• A structured, athlete-centred environment

“It’s given me a strong support system that understands both my sport and how I work. It’s also a really supportive environment where I feel comfortable and motivated to push myself.”

But beyond performance support, it’s the sense of community that has made a real difference.

“I also really enjoy the social side of the programme, like Derby Day. Having those opportunities to be part of a team in a more relaxed environment helps me feel included and connected.”

Building strength, together

“Being around other high-performing athletes pushes me in my own training as a swimmer. Seeing the effort, commitment, and standards of others motivates me to work harder and stay focused on my own goals. It’s helped me develop a more professional mindset and take ownership of my own performance. There’s a shared understanding of what it takes, and that creates a really supportive atmosphere.”

What’s Next

With a national qualification secured, Corey now looks ahead to competing on one of the biggest stages in British swimming

Alongside his development in both swimming and athletics pathways, his ambition continues to grow.

“I want to see how far I can go. At the same time, I want to keep building my confidence and understanding as an athlete and a person and make the most of every opportunity that comes my way.”

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